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Signs of Suicide�S.O.S.�All Middle and High Schools

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Pre-Work

  • Determine when, where, what time (i.e. health/PE) 45-50 min.
    • All grade levels will receive the full or refresher video on platform
    • Middle Schools: 6th grade-full lesson, 7 & 8 ACT Refresher video on platform
    • High Schools: any grade level that did not receive lesson in 23-24 (full lesson), and all DE students & other grade levels (ACT Refresher)
    • Notify school when lessons will occur
  • Prepare & send passive Opt out Consent Letter (Spanish version is available)
  • Preview the Quick Start Guide, Checklist, SOS FAQs, and Videos
  • Print Response Cards
  • Ensure ACT Signs are visible throughout school
  • Make sure you print rosters to document facilitation

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Collaboration & Teamwork

Consider the following:

    • Who will facilitate the lesson
    • Who will remain in the counseling suite to meet or assess students
    • Who will scan the room for emotional responses
    • Who and when will someone respond to the response cards
    • Mandatory Partners:
      • School Counselors (Lead Sessions)
      • School Social Workers
      • MH&WF
      • Interns
      • If available: Nurses, School Psychologists

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Facilitating the Lesson

  • Website (old log in available September 18, 2024)
    • https://sossignsofsuicide.org
  • New log ins will be emailed directly to the 24-25 SOS Contacts from Mindwise
  • The formal screening tool will not be utilized unless you receive approval from the Student Services/School Psychology Departments
  • Use pre-post assessment

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Best Practices for Implementation

  • Inform staff of when lessons will occur
  • No lessons on Fridays or before breaks
  • Do not attempt if short staffed
  • Do not schedule immediately following a FROST event
  • Facilitate the SOS modified lesson for virtual only
  • Leave time in the same day to review response cards
  • Post signage throughout the building from the Mindwise site
  • Allow teachers to leave room, if lesson will trigger trauma
  • Passive opt out must be utilized for refresher lesson
  • If a student opts out, please have a location pre-assigned.
  • Decide when make up sessions will occur for new students or absent students

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After the Lesson

  • Review response cards: divide and conquer
  • Complete the SOS completion survey
  • Supplemental Lessons: There are additional lessons for small groups on the site