Windsor C-1 Superintendent Jason King has formed a committee for adults in response to a recent tragedy in the school district and will organize another committee for students next school year.
At the May 28 Windsor Board of Education meeting, King said he formed the new Windsor C-1 Mental Health & Wellness Advisory Committee for adults following the death of student Chase Marriott to suicide in March. He was a senior and was 17.
The young man’s mother, Holly Marriott of Imperial, spoke at an April Board of Education meeting about Chase’s death and criticized the district for not protecting him from bullying.
“The tragic loss of one of our students had a profound impact on our school community and underscored the importance of mental health and wellness,” King said. “These priorities have long been part of our broader commitment to supporting students and staff. The Mental Health & Wellness Advisory Committee was established to bring stakeholders together to evaluate our current practices and ensure we continue meeting the needs of our school community.”
The committee of 22 includes teachers, counselors, central office administrators, members of the Board of Education and representatives from each of the district’s five schools, he said.
King said the committee, which had met once prior to the May 28 board meeting, is looking at district policies regarding mental health and wellness, as well as other related issues.
“The (committee) was established as part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the well-being of our students, staff and families,” he said. “ As mental health needs continue to evolve, this committee allows us to proactively evaluate our policies and practices, strengthen existing supports and ensure that communication with all stakeholders is clear, consistent and effective.”
King said he intends for information developed by the committee to be spread throughout the district. He said he has the following goals for the committee:
■ To enhance communications and collaboration to “foster a unified, districtwide approach” by sharing information, clarifying procedures and strengthening connections with families and the community.
■ To assess and align practices by using data and feedback to ensure consistency between policies and day-to-day practices, while identifying areas of strength and opportunity.
■ To strengthen mental health supports and training by clearly defining mental health protocols, addressing areas for growth and guiding ongoing professional development.
King said he hopes to see the student committee pursue the same type of goals.
“The upcoming student committee will reflect similar goals, with a focus on mental health, communication and support systems,” he said. “Including the student perspective is essential, as their insights help ensure our efforts are relevant, effective and responsive to the needs of those we serve.”