Eaton County has launched a new initiative called “Handle with Care,” involving all first responders in Eaton County; law enforcement, fire, and EMS, Eaton County schools, community mental health, and Highfields.
A cost-free initiative, it is communication between front line workers and the education system.
“Handle with Care” assists teachers and administrators to understand why children’s behaviors and demeanors show changes during their school day and ensures that children exposed to traumatic situations receive sensitive interventions as needed.
Now, when a child is exposed to violence or trauma, first responders will take the child’s name and where they go to school, and send a “Handle with Care” notice before the next school day begins.
No additional information will be provided to the school.
The notice is given to those identified as supports for the child; it informs educators that a child may need a little extra time, sensitivity, lenience, or kindness. Teachers/counselors will watch the child’s mood, behaviors and academic achievements, but ask no questions.
The child may be referred to other supports and there may be work with the family for mental health assessments. Children exposed to trauma are less able to cope and problem solve; trauma can lead to social, emotional and academic difficulties. With prolonged trauma, they may turn to self-medicating, substance abuse, smoking and overeating. //
Trauma interferes with one’s ability to focus in school and can lead to truancy, failing grades, suspension and higher drop-out rates and increased risk involved behaviors.
The program was developed with guidance and technical assistance from the West Virginia Defending Childhood Initiative who also worked with the Massachusetts Advocates for Children: Trauma and Learning Policy Initiative, in collaboration with Harvard Law School and the Task Force on Children Affected by Domestic Violence.
Local acknowledgements go to the implementation team in Eaton County, which includes school superintendence and personnel, law enforcement administrators, mental health professionals, Amanda Burch and Lisa Underhill, and to Undersheriff Jeff Cook.
Eaton County is the second county in the state to launch the initiative. Jackson County is the first.
