In a recent meeting with the West Virginia Department of Education, School Superintendent Michelle Blatt introduced ParentGuidence.org as a potential solution to the growing behavioral and mental health issues among students in the state. The online coaching platform, part of a three-year contract with the Cook Center for Human Connection, aims to provide support for parents and teachers in dealing with students’ mental health and behavior by offering one-on-one coaching with qualified therapists on a bi-weekly basis.
Blatt emphasized that the platform is designed to address the specific questions and issues that parents and teachers face with their individual children or in their classrooms. By offering real mental health support and guidance, ParentGuidence.org aims to equip parents and teachers with the tools they need to effectively manage and support students’ mental health.
Mimi Browning, who works in the WVDE’s Special Education Office, spoke highly of ParentGuidence.org during the meeting, highlighting its potential for enhancing family engagement and supporting students with special needs. Browning shared her positive experience with the platform, noting its user-friendly interface and the valuable insights she gained from the one-on-one parent coaching sessions.
The program, initially launched in six counties in West Virginia through a grant from SAMSHA, has garnered success and positive feedback, prompting its expansion statewide. In addition to one-on-one coaching, ParentGuidence.org offers on-demand parenting sessions and an “Ask a Therapist” tool, providing a comprehensive support system for parents, teachers, and caregivers.
Browning emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being for parents and teachers, as it directly impacts their ability to support and serve students effectively. By promoting mental health and providing resources for parents and teachers, the program aims to create a supportive environment that benefits the overall academic and behavioral outcomes of students.
With over 6,000 schools nationwide already utilizing ParentGuidence.org, the platform has reached millions of families across 46 states, offering a valuable resource for addressing behavioral and mental health challenges in educational settings. As educators continue to face increasing discipline problems and behavioral issues among students, initiatives like ParentGuidence.org play a crucial role in providing much-needed support and guidance for parents, teachers, and caregivers.
