Dear KHSD Staff, Students, and Families,
The events of Friday evening at Independence High School have deeply affected our entire KHSD community. People process difficult events in many different ways. Some people may experience an immediate response, while for others, the impact may emerge in the days or weeks that follow. We want our students, families, and employees to know that various supports are currently available and will continue to be available.
On-Site Support
Every KHSD school has professionals available to support students, including School Psychologists, School Social Workers, Interventionists, School Guidance Counselors, and School Mental Health Clinicians. Students and families can begin by reaching out to their school’s academic counselor for assistance. You may also contact the District's Student Behavior & Supports Department for more information at 661-827-3100.
Online and Professional Counseling Support
The District's Mental Health Services webpage provides students and families with access to a range of mental health and wellness resources. We will continue to update this page as additional resources become available.
For individuals who would benefit from talking with a professional, Empathia’s professional counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Support includes phone counseling, virtual or in-person counseling sessions, and referrals to additional community-based supports.
Support for Employees and Their Families
Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available at no cost to District employees and eligible family members. The EAP provides confidential counseling and support and is a valuable District resources for its employees.
Family and Community Support
Our KHSD Parent & Family Centers are available at all 19 comprehensive high schools to provide resource referrals and support to students and families.
We also work closely with local agencies and community organizations through our Community Resources network, which allows us to connect individuals with additional services when needs extend beyond what we can provide through our on campus resources.
Please reach out if you need help or if you are concerned about someone who may need help. A conversation with a counselor, a trusted adult, a family member, a professional counselor, or a community provider can be an important first step in helping someone who needs assistance.
We are grateful to the many local agencies, organizations, and individuals who have reached out to KHSD and offered to help during this time. Their willingness to stand with our students, families, and staff during this challenging period is a powerful reminder of what community means.
Please take care of yourself, take care of one another, and know that you are not alone. We will continue to provide support, listen, and make sure that anyone who needs help knows where to find it.