Mayor’s news releases re mental health, safety
UPDATE: Here is the Aug. 22, 2024, news release summarizing the announcements outlined below.
Following is a news release from the office of Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell in advance of an Aug. 22, 2024, news conference featuring Harrell and others.
Mayor Harrell Expands City Efforts to Support Student Safety and Mental Health, in Partnership with Seattle Public Schools
Tomorrow [10 am, Aug. 22, 2024], Mayor Bruce Harrell and Seattle Public Schools (SPS) Superintendent Brent Jones will announce efforts to strengthen student safety and mental health. The mayor and superintendent will detail new investments from the city and school district that align, strengthen, and expand an ecosystem of safety, mental health and student supports for the 2024-2025 school year.
This effort includes a new $14.25 million investment – $12.25 million from the City of Seattle and $2 million from Seattle Public Schools – to expand resources for students and families. This includes increased access to mental health support, enhanced school security, additional school staffing, and expanded gun violence prevention and violence intervention services through community-based partnerships.
Building on 100 Days of Action with King County and Mayor Harrell’s Executive Order to Address Gun Violence in Schools and Protect Youth, new investments will go into effect throughout 2024-2025 school year to address immediate and long-term student and community safety priorities.
Expected to attend:
- Mayor Harrell—City of Seattle
- Dr. Brent Jones –Superintendent, Seattle Public Schools
- Interim Chief Rahr—Seattle Police Department
- Annie Patu—Principal, Rainier Beach High School
- Chelsea Gallegos, MWS/LSWAIC, Mental Health Counselor, Franklin Teen Health Center
- Ricole Jones, Targeted Program Director at SE Network, Boys & Girls Club, Seattle Community Safety Initiative (SCSI)
- Ray Proctor Jr., Student