The following section of the Arkansas Code directs the Arkansas Youth Suicide Prevention Task Force to distribute an awareness program to all schools in Arkansas:
6-18-1005. Student services program defined.
(a) A 'student services program' is defined as a coordinated effort which shall include, but is not limited to:
(7) The distribution of a suicide prevention public awareness program developed for distribution by the Arkansas Youth Suicide Prevention Task Force.
The Gatekeepers of Arkansas under the direction of the Governor’s Arkansas Youth Suicide Prevention Task Force, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has a program designed to heighten awareness about suicide in Arkansas; provide knowledge about the risk and protective factors, warning signs and clues of suicidal behaviors; teach skills to intervene with suicidal youth; and provide helpful resources. Key Concepts are: Youth suicide is a significant problem in Arkansas. Many suicides are preventable if the warning signs are recognized and are responded to with specific intervention skills. The three most important ways to intervene are: to show care, ask about suicide and go for help. There are resources for youth in crisis. Objectives are: define suicidal behaviors, distinguish between facts and myths about youth suicide, understand the risk factors for suicidal behaviors, recognize the warning signs, demonstrate the helpful intervention strategies and identify resources at school and in the community.
This presentation is available by the trained Gatekeepers of Arkansas to present a two hour presentation for faculty, students, administrators and community groups. The attached list of presenters may be contacted with the understanding that districts will furnish transportation and any cost.
For additional information: Dr. Alice Barnes Rose, Assistant Commissioner of Learning Services; Roger Palmer, Guidance & Counseling Program Advisor; or Donna Faulkner, Guidance & Counseling Secretary at the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), #4 Capitol Mall, Little Rock, AR 72201, 501-682-5144.