K to A: P.A.C.I. Student Health & Engagement Program

Prince Albert Collegiate Institute implemented a school wide CPR/First Aid class for 150 students through St. John Ambulance. Target student ambassadors in each grade (20 total) took Mental Health First Aid, providing them with skills necessary to identify and connect fellow students to services when they may be experiencing a mental health crisis. After the training, there was an Increase in referrals for mental health supports. As explained by the grantees, “we have had students who have taken the Mental Health First Aid training connect other students with service. [C]ounsellors and administrators discuss this weekly and provide supports as required.” Youth in the school were also surveyed after the training and there was a decrease in stigma around mental health, and “staff [now] have more open conversations with students about mental health.” Additionally, the school saw an increase of family participation. “Families of student participants have attended parent-teacher interviews… and communicate more freely with staff.”