Former Governor Codey Shares Suicide Prevention Tips In Madison

MADISON, NJ - The Codey Fund for Mental Health teamed up with the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris to provide an in-service training session regarding suicide prevention for Para-Professionals at The Kings Road Elementary School in Madison Tuesday.

Former Governor and current Senator Dick Codey (D-Morris, Essex) hosted the workshop which helps school employees recognize the signs early on of a student who may be struggling with mental health issues.

According to officials, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services Dr. Frank Santora reached out to Codey Fund after receiving notification in the fall of 2018 regarding the Codey Fund’s willingness to assist district’s in training support staff on suicide prevention.

"Julia Bannon, the Executive Director of the Cody Fund for Mental Health, responded immediately to the district’s request and was integral in scheduling the subsequent February 19, 2019 training," Santora said.

While district officials noted Madison didn't have as particular need for this type of training it was consistent with Madison's commitment to addressing the social-emotional needs of students is reflected not only in its programs of support for students but also in its continued efforts to provide meaningful training opportunities for staff.

"It is imperative the school district’s support staff receive key information on the warning signs and risk factors associated with suicide as well as specific strategies to assist students who demonstrate a need for increased levels of support," Santora said.

The training lasted close to 90 minutes and was facilitated by Tracy Klingener and Emily Zelner from the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, Inc. The training provided attendees with specific data regarding incidence of suicide in New Jersey as well as crucial information regarding risk factors and warning signs associated with suicidal ideation. Attendees also received guidance regarding appropriate strategies to use when interacting with a student who is at risk.

"Additionally, the district was fortunate to welcome former Governor Codey, who also provided attendees with important information regarding risk factors and prevention," Santora said.

Santora said that response to the training has been overwhelmingly positive.

"In speaking with staff who attended the training, it is evident they found the topic to be compelling and the information provided to be extremely useful in their daily work with students," he said.

For his part, Superintendent Marc Schwarz expressed gratitude to those responsible for the training.

"Madison Schools are greatly appreciative for the services of Governor Codey's anti-suicide initiative, particularly with regard to his emphasis on providing training to support staff," Schwarz told Patch. "We strive to take a proactive stance regarding the mental health and wellness of our students and it was a privilege to partner with the Codey Fund to ensure that our support staff members are equipped with suicide prevention training."

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