SDCOE Receives Recognition for Suicide Prevention
The San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) recently received the Outstanding Service Award from the San Diego County Suicide Prevention Council (SPC) for the work of the Student Wellness and School Culture department related to mental health and suicide prevention resources.
The council recognized the work of the entire team, which includes Mara Madrigal-Weiss, Violeta Mora, Roxanne Bellamy, Heather Nemour, Rachel Wegner, and Donny Ojeda.
“Over the decades, SDCOE and its Student Wellness and School Culture Department has taken lead in assuring that the schools in San Diego County have the best suicide prevention resources, programs, best practices, and overall knowledge and understanding with the greatest support team,” said Yeni Linqui Palomino, vice president for Community Health Improvement Partners, the organization that oversees the Suicide Prevention Council.
The Student Wellness and School Culture team was recognized for the multitude of ways they support the Suicide Prevention Council and students across the county.
SDCOE staff members help chair the K-12 School Collaborative Subcommittee, have helped create resource guides for school administrators that were adopted at a state level, provide suicide prevention trainings, support for implementing new legislation and policies locally, and look for opportunities to bring additional funding and programs to San Diego schools and their respective communities.
In addition, they contribute to the SPC Reports to the Community that help inform the community on what is available to support suicide prevention and mental health.
Nemour accepted the award on the team’s behalf, which was presented at the San Diego County Suicide Prevention Council's 12th Annual Stakeholders Meeting on June 25.
"On behalf of our incredible team, I am honored to accept this meaningful award as a testament to our commitment to supporting schools in suicide prevention. Our collective efforts are making a difference, and we will continue to offer hope and save lives."
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