During the Boone County School Board meeting on May 9, 2025, a significant commitment to student mental health was announced with a generous donation to the Hope Squad program. Debbie Zegara, co-founder of Ethan's Purpose, presented a check for $5,300 to support this peer-to-peer suicide prevention initiative at Conner High School and expand it to all middle and high schools in the Boone County School District over the next four years.

Ethan's Purpose, established by Zegara and her husband Richard after the tragic loss of their son Ethan to suicide, has been dedicated to providing counseling and mental health training in schools. The Hope Squad program not only focuses on suicide prevention but also emphasizes emotional intelligence and social-emotional learning among students.

Zegara expressed pride in the partnership with the district, highlighting the importance of equipping students with the tools they need to support one another. The funding will ensure that the program can continue to grow and reach more students, with plans to raise additional funds for its sustainability.

In addition to the donation, the meeting also recognized student board representatives, celebrating their contributions to the school community. This focus on mental health and student engagement underscores the district's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for all students. The initiatives discussed are expected to have a lasting impact on the well-being of Boone County students, promoting a culture of care and resilience.