Program Detail

In a unique partnership with Pastoral Counseling Services, STRIVE is an alternative to out-of-school suspension, provides quality mental health services to elementary students with disruptive behavior and teaches them better problem-solving skills.

News:

Mental health program for APS elementary students wins award
Monday, October 8, 2012 – STRIVE, a program that helps re-integrate APS students in grades K-5 who've been suspended for disruptive behavior, has been recognized by Mental Health America of Summit County.

The MHA awards committee will present STRIVE representatives with a program award at its annual meeting Wednesday evening, Oct. 10.

STRIVE (Success, Think, Responsibility, Independence, Vision, Education) was developed through a unique collaboration between the school district and Pastoral Counseling Services as an alternative to out-of-school suspension.

Participating students receive support from therapists, a social worker, and a marriage and family therapist board. They are taught to improve their communication, decision making, problem solving, anger management and coping skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Upon completion of the program, the school receives a re-integration plan.

The MHA award recognizes the program's innovative approach and significant impact on the community.

For more information, contact Angela Tucker Cooper, executive director of MHA of Summit County, at acooper@mhasc.net or 330.923.0688.

The special education alternative programs will hold an open house on Thursday, October 18, from 5-6 p.m. at 1532 Peckham St. (the old Erie Island school building). Participants in attendance will be invited to give reasons why they are "APS PROUD," and assistant superintendent Ellen McWilliams will be the main speaker. For more information, call 330.761.2732; or e-mail Terri Porter st tporter@akron.k12.oh.us.