Superintendent’s Sept. 6, 2023 Update

Dear APS Families,

I hope you had a great first week and enjoyed the Labor Day holiday. Tonight, we look forward to welcoming elementary families to Back-to-School Nights to meet your teachers and learn more about the year ahead and goals for your students. I encourage all families to attend. See additional Back-to-School Nights and calendar dates.

As we begin the new year, we are focused on helping each student achieve their full potential, which begins with supporting their mental health and well-being.

Here are some of the mental health and academic resources APS offers students, families and staff:

Mental Health Resources: We have expanded our mental health programs and resources to promote emotional resilience and provide a safe, nurturing space for all. During the first weeks of school, teachers focus on relationship-building and work to ensure every student feels a sense of belonging and connectedness within the school community. We value close partnership with our families in this effort and offer a variety of resources to help those who may be in crisis or struggling with depression, substance use or other challenges. If you know someone who needs help:

• Call or text 988 or use the online chat at 988lifeline.org for mental health and substance abuse support.
• Call the School Support Line at 833-Me-Cigna (833-632–4462) for assistance with bullying, isolation or other mental health issues.
• Report bullying through the Bully Harassment Incident Form. 
• Contact an APS substance abuse counselor or other trusted staff member, if you have concerns about someone you believe may be using opioids or other substances and need help.

Visit our website to find a list of mental health resources offered by APS and beyond.

Monthly Youth Mental Health Training: Our Office of Student Services offers monthly Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) sessions for all staff and families. Participants learn how to recognize and respond to mental health needs or help a young person who is experiencing distress or sadness. Sessions are offered every month throughout the year. Learn more and register.  

Expanded Academic Support for Middle and High School Students: APS is expanding the services offered by PAPER for grades 6-12 to include literacy support, direct access through Canvas and more. PAPER offers 24/7 on-demand virtual tutors for assistance with homework, essay review and other academic assistance in multiple subjects and languages. I encourage you to utilize this resource, as needed. Details online. I invite you to tune in for tomorrow’s School Board meeting as I present the annual first-day report and video.

Have a wonderful week!

Sincerely,

Dr. Francisco Durán
Superintendent
Arlington Public Schools