Albuquerque Public Schools
Building a Culture of Hope
School counselors provide students with tools to support mental health.
As September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Albuquerque Public Schools is highlighting the work school counselors do to help students navigate mental health challenges.
APS school counselors teach suicide prevention lessons to middle and high school students using age-appropriate, evidence-based materials, giving students tools and strategies to support their mental health and look out for one another.
Eldorado High School School Counselor Kimberly McClintic said these lessons are vital for students.
“Adolescence can bring a lot of uncertainty, stress and even isolation, which is why suicide prevention lessons and relevant resources are so important,” she said. “They remind students that there’s hope, help and a community they can turn to. By talking openly about mental health and giving students real tools, we’re continually working on breaking down stigma and building a culture at Eldorado High School where no one has to struggle alone.”
McClintic said the lessons are already making a difference in the school community, with one of the most powerful outcomes being a rise in reports of concern. While that might sound scary at first, McClintic said it’s actually a positive sign. It means students are noticing the warning signs and stepping up to help one another.
“At Eldorado, we’re also seeing more openness in conversations about mental health, with students reaching out to trusted adults and using resources,” McClintic added. “It's creating a culture of hope, safety and empathy where every student knows that their life counts.”
APS families are encouraged to connect with school counselors and explore available resources to support students’ mental health. For more information, visit the APS counseling services page.
If you or someone you know is concerned about suicidal ideation, please consider contacting one of the following resources:
- New Mexico Crisis and Access Line: 1-855-NMCRISIS (1-855-662-7474)
- Agora: (505) 277-3013
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
- The Trevor Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386