Glenwood Middle School in Boardman, Ohio Hosts “Bridges for Resilient Youth in Transition” Program Addressing Mental Health

BOARDMAN, OH (WKBN) — On a day when there was no school in Boardman, there was an important meeting. It described a program to help junior high school students with mental health issues and had several other districts there to learn about it.

Boardman’s pilot program was a huge success, helping 17 students with no recidivism.

This is called BRYT, which stands for Bridge for Resilient Youth in Transition. Friday’s presentation also helped teachers understand it and explain it to school districts considering it.

BRYT helps students dealing with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. They receive special support, build relationships, and help students feel connected.

It was brought to Boardman by the principal who wanted something different to meet the needs of the students.

“If we keep doing more of the same, we’re going to push them out instead of pulling them in. We always want them to feel part of the community.

“They have so much turmoil in their lives,” said intervention expert Greg McAtee.

“We have many children who have benefited from this program. [have] Not only has my social and emotional stability improved, but so has my academic performance in school,” McAtee continued.

BRYT is used in 250 schools in eight states. Conducted at Glenwood Middle School for two years and helped 17 students return to the general education track. The school has multiple counselors and reserves a room just for the counselor’s use with the students.

Carlo DeAscentis, Glenwood BRTY Counselor, said: “This has helped students return to their normal academic environment from hospital or partial hospital stays.”

“I have been able to follow up with students going to high school. As you know, many parents have told me that this program has saved their lives. We are doing it,” said DeAscentis.