KSSN involves the placement of 8 D.A. Blodgett for Children social workers in area public schools: 6 in Grand Rapids, 1 in Godfrey Lee and 1 in Comstock Park. These social workers work with the school principal to assist families in addressing any child/family need that is creating barriers to student achievement.

The overall goals of the project are to decrease absenteeism and behavior problems, increase achievement, make the school a full resource site for families - allowing teachers the time to focus on the education of the children.

KSSN is a collaborative effort involving Comstock Park, Godfrey Lee and Grand Rapids Public Schools; The Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Kent County, Kent County DHS, Kent County Health Department, Kent ISD, network 180, Spectrum Health Healthier Communities, Steelcase Foundation and the United Way.

School Based Outreach Services

This outreach program currently provides services in 14 elementary schools in Grand Rapids and several suburban schools. The goal is to link children and their families to the appropriate mental health services they need within the community. During 2007, 254 families were served in this program, an increase of 24% from 2006.