La Porte High School Slicer Support Services sends a message of safety and smart choices to students as prom, graduation, and summer vacation approach. Last week's school events highlighted National Prevention Week, an annual observance dedicated to increase public awareness of substance abuse and mental health issues.
On Wednesday, students participated in a “live” demonstration of a mock accident along with an extrication and rescue in coordination with La Porte County EMS, La Porte City Fire Department, Med Flight Ambulance, La Porte City Police, La Porte Sherriff’s Department, and LPHS Slicer Support Services. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. Fortunately, teen motor vehicle crashes are preventable, and proven strategies can improve the safety of young drivers on the road.
On Friday, Slicer Support Services hosted an end-of-the-year dance celebration during student lunches to educate Slicers about substance abuse and mental health issues. Students received a lifeline card with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number should they find themselves or a friend in a crisis, and they had an opportunity to share a variety of dance skills from jitterbug to hip-hop. Other activities included classroom presentations and student-designed posters promoting safety.
LPHS Slicer Support Services is an initiative developed out the La Porte Drug-Free Task Force, a collaborative effort between the La Porte Community School Corporation and community members. Slicer Support Services has a full-time staff member which focuses on the education, prevention, and intervention of substance abuse, suicide, and other issues related to the well-being of Slicers. Christine Rosenbaum is the program’s coordinator with over 15 years teaching in the LPCSC Corporation. In addition, she has earned certificates in addiction counseling, grief counseling, Youth Mental Health First Aid, and Strengthening Families.
“My mission is to serve as a student advocate. We know that students cannot perform well in the classroom if other parts of their life are in chaos. I help students to help themselves by providing education and tools. Our community is fortunate that our school corporation has made this investment,” stated Rosenbaum.
If you would like more information about Slicer Support Services, email crosenbaum@lpcsc.k12.in.us or call 362-3102. Slicer Support Services may also be found on Twitter @slicer support.