Roanoke City Schools working to bridge the mental health care divide

Roanoke City Schools is working to break down barriers and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health care. Superintendent Verletta White believes that everyone can benefit from some support at times, and the school system has partnered with Hazel Health to provide students with virtual mental healthcare services at no cost. This partnership was initiated in response to requests from students in the district who expressed a need for access to more mental health services.

The program allows students to speak directly with a licensed therapist online, which White emphasizes is crucial for addressing the emotional, social, and psychological well-being of students in order to improve their school performance and attendance. The program also aims to help students deal with trauma-related issues, regardless of the type of trauma they have experienced.

Hazel Health offers services in multiple languages, ensuring that a diverse student population in Roanoke City can access the help they need. Since its launch, 18 students from 12 different schools have utilized the program. The school officials are also working to add physical telehealth services through Hazel Health in the near future. White believes that the overall goal is to promote wholeness and wellness for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.