LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Students in Kentucky's largest school district kick off the new year this week with virtual learning. Last year, Jefferson County Public Schools expanded mental health services by assigning a mental health practitioner to every school. Even though kids are starting the year online, those mental health services will still be available.

Kelly Parker, a licensed therapist and mental health practitioner with the district, said it's important to keep up those services. With all of the changes going on, some kids are experiencing mental health challenges like they never have before.

“Kids are experiencing some loneliness, boredom and increased anxiety," Parker said.

Last year, when students were learning in-person, the JCPS mental health practitioners did a lot of small group and one-on-one counseling. Parker said they will continue to do that this year, just through a screen.

“As we enter NTI 2.0, emotional wellness, mental health, and wellbeing is of the utmost importance for us. We are working collaboratively with school counselors to make sure students, staff, and families are feeling supported,” Parker said.

She said all of the mental health professionals in the district have set up virtual platforms that give parents and students easy access to them. With that, students can request counseling, support, check-ins, or phone calls to families. Parker also said she will be working with teachers to see if there are any kids who could use a meeting or check-in with a counselor or mental health practitioner.

“I think it’s important for kids to know they are valued, they are worthy of love, and that we at JCPS care very much about each and every student and their specific needs. We are here to help, so reach out,” Parker said.

She also shared some tips for parents to better help their kids through NTI:

• Make sure you have a safe, consistent, and positive relationship with your children.
• Make sure your kids are staying active.
• Create and stick to a consistent routine.
• Spend quality time with your kids. They need social interaction.
• Let them express their feelings.

She said, if you notice significant behavior changes in your child, it's likely a good idea to seek professional help.