Middle School

QPR Training

Horace Mann Middle School, Farnsworth Middle School, and Urban Middle School REDgen Peer Leaders participate in REDgen 101 & QPR training in the during the fall each school year. This training is offered to 8th grade Peer Leaders.

QPR is an evidence-based suicide prevention program developed and certified by the reputable QPR Institute. It educates students to recognize the warning signs of crisis, ask critical questions, connect those in need with an adult such as a parent, teacher, coach, and identify how to help friends who are feeling sad or down. The training is designed to be developmentally and age-appropriate, focused on building awareness and equipping students with the skills to help themselves or others if faced with a mental health crisis, and overwhelming feelings.

Learning QPR is like learning CPR as a life-saving prevention and intervention life skill. 

What will students learn in the QPR training:

• Question – Students will learn how to be alert to the signs that someone is in crisis and learn how to ask someone if they are thinking about suicide in a caring and direct way.

• Persuade – Students will learn how to be empathic listeners and encourage someone to seek help and connect to a parent and/or a trusted adult at school.

• Refer – Students will learn how to guide a peer or friend to a parent, trusted adults at school, or other trusted adults.  

Protective and Risk Factors:

QPR training also helps students understand the protective factors that can support mental health and well-being, such as strong relationships, coping skills, and access to mental health care. It also covers risk factors that might increase vulnerability, including feelings of isolation, overwhelming stress, or previous mental health challenges. For instance, a strong relationship with a parent or a teacher can be a protective factor, while feelings of isolation can be a risk factor.

By recognizing these factors, students are better prepared to support their peers and learn how to share information with parents, teachers, and other trusted adults. This training emphasizes safety and encourages students to be proactive in fostering a caring and supportive community.

By providing this training, we empower students to be leaders in creating a healthy environment, which will positively impact our entire school community. This is another step towards a safer and more supportive school environment. For more information about QPR, you can visit their official website at www.qprinstitute.com.