The Warwick County Board of School Trustees convened on August 26, 2024, to address various topics, including a heartfelt tribute to Bob Fischer, a long-time maintenance worker who recently passed away. The meeting began with a moment of silence in his honor, reflecting the community's respect for his contributions.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation by Perry Black, President and CEO of Youth First, alongside her team. Black highlighted the longstanding partnership between Youth First and the Warwick County School Corporation, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing mental health support for students and families. Youth First, established over 26 years ago, aims to strengthen youth and families through evidence-based programs that promote mental health and prevent substance misuse.

Black outlined the organization's five-pillar model, which includes a team of trained prevention professionals, high-quality programs, ongoing evaluations, strong community partnerships, and dedicated volunteers. The presentation detailed various initiatives, such as the Youth First Student Assistance Program, which provides licensed mental health professionals in schools to support students facing challenges like attendance issues, home life difficulties, and mental health concerns.

The report indicated that last year, Youth First reached over 5,000 students across ten schools, with significant engagement in educational presentations and consultations. Notably, 100% of students receiving one-on-one support advanced to the next grade level or graduated, showcasing the program's effectiveness in addressing the needs of at-risk youth.

Black also discussed the importance of community involvement, highlighting initiatives like the I Care Awards and positive ticketing, which recognize and reward positive behavior among students. The meeting underscored the critical role of mental health support in schools and the ongoing efforts to foster a supportive environment for students in Warwick County.