In late March, we were informed that guidance positions at two of our elementary schools would be reduced to half time. We are deeply concerned about this reduction, as we believe it will adversely impact our school community and students. Our hope is that you will join us in letting the Superintendent, School Committee, and Warrant Committee know that mental health cuts are not the answer.

Please take action by signing the Action Network letter. If you have time, please feel free to include a personal story about how our guidance counselors have impacted your child’s/children's lives. Please join us in letting our town committees that mental health cuts should be off of the table, and that each school should continue to have a full time guidance counselor.

FAQs about elementary guidance

• Between the two elementary schools, over 300 students have received direct services from guidance

• Guidance staff oversee the prevention, management, and follow up support for our students on a daily basis.

• They are critical members of our crisis intervention teams

• Provides outreach to families and supports with:

- housing insecurity

- food insecurity

- clothing

- health care

- bereavement needs

- camps

- after school programs

- transportation

- outside mental health services

- case management with agencies like DCF, McCleans, outside therapists, outside

psychologist and/or psychiatrists, after school programs, Belmont Helps, Belmont

Recreation, Care Solace

- holiday support

- winter clothing support

We are concerned that this reduction in mental health is only the first of many. Please take action now.