Erie Public Schools is launching a comprehensive suicide prevention and crisis response initiative aimed at strengthening how the district supports students and staff.
During the district’s March 11 school board meeting, officials will review their current partnership with UPMC as part of the effort.
District leaders say the work goes far beyond policy.
Officials plan to closely examine day-to-day practices across the district, including communication systems, staff training, community partnerships, and how schools respond to real-world crises.
We spoke with school board president John Breneman about why this work is so important.
“Because of the diversity in our district, we want to make sure that all voices are represented,” Breneman said. “Different cultures have different experiences and different ways of reaching people. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t fit anybody, so we need to make sure we’re reaching everyone.”
Breneman says the district is bringing in staff, students, and leaders from across the state to help guide the effort.
The public can reach out with any questions. Breneman can be contacted at jbreneman@eriesd.org or by phone at (814) 874-6074.