Alexandria City schools promotes substance use, mental health resources

ALEXANDRIA, Va. ( DC News Now ) — A Northern Virginia school district is hoping students and parents are listening to an important conversation about health.

Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) said substance use and mental health issues are prevalent, not only in the city, but across the area.

On Wednesday, Superintendent Melanie Kay-Wyatt led a panel that included PTA members, mental health and security specialists and community partners. They discussed the issues, what resources are available and urged involvement from students and families.

“Raising teenagers is hard, it’s really hard,” said PTAC President Catie Browback. “We’re hoping to connect parents with the resources that are available in our community.”

Following the panel discussion, there were breakout sessions including a Narcan training room.

“We can save a life with today’s information,” said Fredy Martinez, the ACPS K-12 Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Services Coordinator.

Among the resources touted was a free mental telehealth opportunity for ACPS students.

“We want our students to know that there are options for them and resources for them,” Kay-Wyatt said in an interview with DC News Now. “Hopefully they will go home and continue those conversations.”

Kay-Wyatt was also asked about the multiple threats of violence the school district has received in recent days on social media. While she said none have been credible, she also acknowledged the emotional impact the threats can have.

Alexandria parent, Marjorie Ramos, said she’s leaving the panel feeling encouraged after coming to hear about how threats and violent incidents are handled.

“I was scared at some point,” she said. “But now I’m feeling better now that I see that the communication between the school and the parents are good.”

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