Mental Health Liaison Coming To Overton Co. Schools

The Overton County School System will have a new mental health liaison after this spring break.

This comes from an expansion of the state’s Behavioral Health Liaison program last year. Interim Director of Schools Donnie Holman said the position will work hand in hand with students and staff for any counseling needs.

“They’ll help our students to be successful in every way,” Holman said. “Whether it be coping with an issue or dealing with an academic issue. I hope this person would help connect a child with a tutor even if they are struggling academically.”

Holman said the liaison would work out of the Livingston Academy counseling center but offer services to all grades. Volunteer Behavioral Health is in charge of the hiring process. Holman said he expects to meet with the top candidates before the position is officially filled.

“They’ll work alongside our counseling department at the high school to assist them with whatever needs arise with the students,” Holman said. “In my mind, this could be as simple as helping students with study skills or for much more serious conditions.”

Governor Bill Lee appropriated an increase of $3 million to the program in September to go state-wide. The position is at no cost to the district. Holman said any additional help for mental health is always wanted in today’s school environment.