Youth suicide impacts the safety of the school environment. It also affects the school community, diminishing the ability of surviving students to learn and the school’s ability to educate. Suicide and depression awareness and prevention are important goals of the school district.

The school district maintains student and parent resources on suicide and depression awareness and prevention. Much of this information, including a copy of school district’s policy, is posted on the school district website. Information can also be obtained from the school office.

If you are someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts and/or behaviors please take action by contacting one of the counselors here at the school.

Ways to seek out help from the school:

• Fill out an online incident form from the school website. This will alert administration and counselors.

• Come see one of the counselors in their office or email them.

  • Kaylee Butler – butlerk@sjo.k12.il.us

  • Terri Rein – reint@sjo.k12.il.us

  • Whitney Highfill - highfillw@rccsec.org

• Contact any teacher, administrator, or staff.

Ways to seek help outside of the school:

• Dial 9-8-8 for the new suicide helpline.

• Contact one of the hotlines or helplines located on page 142 of the student planner.

• In any emergency or life threatening situation call 911.