Ferguson-Florissant and Hazel Health Partnership Supports Student Attendance and Mental Health
Ferguson-Florissant School District is thrilled to announce the positive impact of its ongoing partnership with Hazel Health, which has played a pivotal role in supporting students' mental health and improving school attendance across the district. This partnership, designed to offer accessible telehealth and teletherapy services, is helping students facing trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
Hazel Health has provided a lifeline for students and families, allowing them to access timely care and support. Through this partnership, over 6,300 Hazel Health visits were recorded last year alone, involving nearly 20% of students. The results speak volumes: students in the teletherapy program have shown marked improvement in their mental health, including reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms. This improvement in well-being has translated to better attendance and engagement, allowing students to remain in school and focus on their academic progress.
"We are deeply committed to supporting our students’ well-being so that they can attend school consistently and fully engage in their education," said Dr. Joseph Davis, Superintendent of Ferguson-Florissant School District. "Our partnership with Hazel Health has helped us to provide critical resources for students with the greatest needs, making sure they feel safe, supported, and ready to learn."
One of the most encouraging outcomes of this partnership is the improvement in attendance rates. According to FFSD data, 91% of severely absent students improved their attendance after being referred to teletherapy services. Among students with moderate to severe mental health needs, attendance stabilized within 120 days of receiving teletherapy, showcasing the program's effectiveness in addressing chronic absenteeism. Overall, 60% of elementary and high school students referred to Hazel Health have seen improvement in attendance, with male students showing particularly strong gains.
"Our partnership with Ferguson-Florissant School District has underscored the positive impacts that Hazel is having on students -- particularly in improving student attendance. The data clearly demonstrates that when students receive the mental health support they need, they are more engaged and present in the classroom. This success is a testament to the power of school-centered, barrier-free care in addressing the root causes of chronic absenteeism, and we look forward to continuing to support students' well-being and academic success," said Dr. Travis Gayles, Chief Health Officer, Hazel Health.
To achieve these outcomes, Ferguson-Florissant School District remains dedicated to addressing chronic absenteeism through continued investment in mental health services and innovative solutions. This partnership is only the beginning of a larger commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all students.
