Arma, Kansas — Crawford County Mental Health Center (CCMHC) is excited to announce the establishment of a satellite Discovery classroom at Northeast Elementary school to better serve the children and families of Crawford County.
Discovery, a therapeutic preschool program that focuses on social and emotional development, offers mental health services for children ages 30 months through 5 years, based on their individual needs. Children that are having difficulties in their home, community, or child-care may benefit from the community based services offered.
Beginning with the 2023-2024 academic school year, CCMHC, in collaboration with USD 246, launched an early childhood psychosocial preschool classroom. This collaboration will allow CCMHC to better serve the students and families of the Northeast School District by eliminating barriers commonly faced by families seeking services.
“Adding the Discovery program at Northeast Elementary will help ensure that our students have the resources they need to become kindergarten ready, which is one of our district KESA goals. Northeast USD 246 is excited for the potential short-term and long-term benefits for all of our students and staff,“ said Dr. Ray Streeter, Northeast USD 246 Superintendent.
The Discovery classroom will mirror the preschool schedule that is already established for USD 246, allowing children to be enrolled both in Discovery and USD 246’s preschool. Children who attend Discovery will follow the district calendar and have access to district transportation, meals, and snacks.
Alisa Wells, Discovery’s Lead Teacher at Northeast, is a licensed Kansas educator with years of experience working with children that showcase behavioral struggles. Additionally, a full clinical team, including a therapist, nurse practitioner, and case manager, will be assigned to work with the children.
In addition to the new satellite Discovery classroom, CCMHC will be assigning a second Community Rehab Specialist to the district. This individual will work closely with children and families from preschool age through their transition to elementary school.
“The goal of adding this additional Community Rehab Specialist is to make sure we are able to provide consistent support as the children progress through their educational years,” said Bill Howell, Director of Children’s Services.
To enroll into Discovery, families can speak with their provider or visit CCMHC’s Same Day Access Clinic, located at 911 E. Centennial in Pittsburg, Kansas, to complete an intake. The Same Day Access Clinic operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary and walk-ins are welcome.
Crawford County Mental Health Center has been serving the mental health needs of Crawford County since 1961, offering adult, children’s, crisis, and substance use services. For more information, please call 620-231-5130 or visit www.crawfordmentalhealth.org.