b'IntroductionThis document outlines model policies and best practices for school districts to follow to protect the health and safety of all students. In 2017, suicide was the second leading cause of death among young people ages 10-19. 1It is critically important that school districts have policies and procedures in place to prevent, assess the risk of, intervene, and respond to youth suicidal behavior.Protecting the health and well-being of students is in line with school mandates and is an ethical imperative forall professionals working with youth. Because it is impossible to predict when a crisis will occur, preparedness is necessary for every school district. Furthermore, prevention programs and policies can help to deter suicide,rather than just acting in response. On average, a young person dies by suicide every hour and 25 minutes in the U.S. 2For every young person who dies by suicide, an estimated 100-200 youth make suicide attempts. 3Youth suicide is preventable, and educators and schools are key to prevention.This document was developed by examining strong local policies, ensuring that they are in line with the latest research in the field of suicide prevention, and identifying best practices for a national framework. The model is comprehensive, yet the policy language is modular and may be used to draft your own district policy based upon the unique needs of your district. The language and concepts covered by this policy are applicable for education levels K-12. While historically, many school-based suicide prevention policies have focused on middle and high school studentsand that framework serves as the basis for much of this guidecurrent data has shown an increased (albeit still low) suicide rate for children at younger ages. Keeping in mind that a student talking about suicide must be taken seriously at any age, much of the information is relevant for elementary schools as well as older students.As emphasized in the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, preventing suicide depends not only on suicide prevention policies, but also on a holistic approach.This approach promotes a wellness culture that encompasses multiple dimensions, including social and mental health, and the participation of families and communities. 4Thus, this model policy is intended to be paired with other policies and efforts that supportthe emotional and behavioral well-being of youth. Please refer to the Resources section in this guide for additional information. If you would like support inwriting a policy for your own district or have questions, please contact the Advocacy and Government AffairsDepartment at The Trevor Project (202-204-4730, Advocacy@TheTrevorProject.org), or the American Foundation for Suicide Preventions Prevention Education Department (education@afsp.org).Model School District Policy on Suicide Prevention | Model Language, Commentary, and Resources 1'