MCOE is committed to supporting schools, students, and families with resources to address mental health and suicide prevention. We recognize educators, families, and communities' critical role in creating safe, supportive environments where children can thrive. To assist in these efforts, we offer free Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) suicide prevention and Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training opportunities for free, year-round. Click on a training date below to register for a course. Registration opens January 1, 2025. 

Question, Persuade, Refer

QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training equips individuals with the tools to recognize and respond to warning signs of suicide, empowering them to save lives. Participants will learn how to offer hope, refer help, and save a life in just one hour. Like CPR, QPR is a simple, effective intervention that anyone can learn to prevent a potential tragedy and make a difference in their community. Whether you're a parent, teacher, colleague, or friend, this training helps you build the confidence and skills to act when it matters most. 

Sign up for a free 1.5-hour online QPR training course facilitated by MCOE mental health professionals: 

• January 14
• February 4
• March 4
• April 8
• May 6
• June 10

Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an evidence-based training program designed to help individuals recognize and respond to signs of mental health challenges or substance use disorders. Much like physical first aid, MHFA equips participants with the knowledge and skills to provide initial support and connect someone in need to appropriate resources. 

MHFA is transforming communities by reducing stigma and fostering support. Participants include teachers, first responders, veterans, parents, and everyday neighbors committed to creating healthier, safer spaces for everyone. 

Sign up for a free 5-hour MHFA online training course facilitated by MCOE mental health professionals: 

• January 15- 16 (this course is focused on the mental health of youth)
• February 18- 19 (this course is focused on the mental health of youth) 

Please check back, as more dates will be added soon!

Questions?  Contact our Mental Health Awareness team here: MHFA@mcoe.us.