Gov. Sean Parnell has signed legislation requiring suicide prevention training for certain teachers, administrators, counselors and specialists in Alaska public schools.
SB137, sponsored by Sen. Bettye Davis, requires at least two hours of training for school personnel who work with students in grades 7-12.
Davis, in a news release, said most young people considering suicide exhibit warning signs. She said it’s critical that educators know how to recognize the signs of at-risk youth and that they are prepared to step in if they see a problem.
Davis, an Anchorage Democrat, said suicide is the leading cause of death for Alaskans under the age of 50. She said kids deserve a better chance at life, and this training is an important step forward in that effort.
