COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – A new program involving Branch County schools, law enforcement, and mental health providers will be rolled out next week.
The program is called “Handle with Care” and its goal is to make sure any child who is exposed to a traumatic event in the home or in the community gets the proper intervention.
As part of the program, police officers send a confidential notice to the child’s school before classes start the next day, which alerts pertinent staff to “handle the student with care.”
Branch Intermediate School District Superintendent Kris Jenkins says it’s another level of support for students.
City of Coldwater Interim Public Safety Director Joe Scheid says they are partnering with schools to help students get through traumatic experiences.
This program was adopted from the West Virginia State Police which started it back in 2013. More information can be found at www.handlewithcaremi.org.