NO SCHOOL Tomorrow, Friday, 3/24!

Posted March 23, 2023

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Dear McKinley-Thatcher Community —

This school year has been so challenging, and in ways that we never anticipated. I am saddened, scared, and angered at the recent gun violence that has occurred in DPS schools over the past several months. My heart goes out to our friends, families, and colleagues that have been on the front line of this trauma.

In order to pause and process the challenging events of this year, DPS has determined that tomorrow, Friday, March 24, is a NO SCHOOL mental health day for the DPS community. To support families, DPS will have 14 Discovery Link extended care sites available tomorrow from 7:30am to 5:00pm. Additionally, the district will be providing food pick-up locations at these schools. The closest Discovery Link care site and food distribution center to McKinley is Lincoln Elementary School (710 S. Pennsylvania St.).

Please see the information below for a list of community and national resources available to our children and families to support your mental health and emotional wellness. You may also find these district resource handouts for navigating anxiety and grief helpful.

Sincerely,

Ms. Sonia Geerdes (she/her)
Principal

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Community Providers for Mental Health Care

Name	Number	Description
Colorado Crisis and Support Line	844-493-8255, or Text TALK to 38255	Resource for mental health, substance use, or emotional crisis help – information and referrals
National Suicide Hotline	800-273-8255	24-hour toll-free confidential suicide prevention hotline
Second Wind Fund	303-988-2645	Provides free counseling to underinsured and uninsured youth that are suicidal
Trevor Project Hotline	866-488-7386	Crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth
Safe2Tell Colorado	877-542-7233	An anonymous way to report any concern impacting students (phone, app, online reporting options).
I Matter Colorado	imattercolorado.org	Will direct students to an online survey for their needs and connect them to a therapist.
TherapyDirect	wellpower.org/therapydirect	TherapyDirect provides quick access to a counselor for a confidential 55-minute online session.