BILLINGS, Mont. – In recent months, the city of Billings has faced several tragedies involving the loss of its students. Another student lost their life in a tragic accident over the weekend, adding to the string of unfortunate events.
Gordon Klasna, Director of Secondary Education, stated that the city’s public schools have a Crisis Response team of school counselors who work with both staff and students dealing with loss. Klasna emphasized that navigating trauma is different for everyone, especially for children and teenagers who may have difficulty expressing their emotions.
According to a 2022 study from the Behavioral Health Alliance of Montana, the entire state is facing a shortage of mental health providers. This shortage also affects the city’s public schools, and Klasna added that the district is making every effort possible to support those affected by these tragic events.
In response to such crises, guidance counselors go to each class the student was enrolled in to provide support and assurance of help. Additionally, a recent grant awarded to the district will allow the transfer of staff into mental health positions and the addition of more guidance counselors to provide support during tragic times.
Klasna urged parents or guardians with students struggling with mental health or trauma to reach out to the school district for support. The district is dedicated to providing the necessary support for those in need during such difficult times.