PTS lands opioid grant

PHOENIX, Ore. — The Public School Districts’ Opioid Recovery Trust (PSDORT) today awarded Phoenix-Talent School District a half-million-dollar grant to fund programs addressing the devastating impact of the opioid crisis on students and their families. Phoenix-Talent School District is one of 39 school districts to receive a total of 51 grant awards. 

The opioid epidemic has left public schools on the front lines, forcing districts to respond to three overlapping challenges: children born with Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome who need costly special education services; students coping with addicted or deceased family members; and students struggling with addiction. The new funding will help districts provide the special education, mental health, and recovery supports needed to keep students in school and on track. 

Created following national opioid litigation resolutions between school districts represented by Mehri & Skalet and co-counsel with McKinsey & Company, Endo International PLC, and Mallinckrodt PLC, PSDORT directs resources where they are most urgently needed. By investing in schools, the Trust ensures these grant awards not only respond to the crisis but also protect students’ futures. 

“The opioid crisis devastated school systems in many communities,” Special Trustee Dr. Andres Alonso said. “More children were born with Neonatal Withdrawal Syndrome, many were in families who succumbed to addiction, resulting in interruptions to their education and to districts diverting resources to them. Many became addicted themselves. The volume, quality, and creativity of the school district applications we received to help alleviate this crisis reflect a powerful commitment to these students.

“The 51 projects we have selected represent a diverse portfolio of promising initiatives. We are confident these investments will generate valuable insights and tangible benefits for students and for other similarly affected school systems throughout the nation, who are in incredible need of solutions and resources.” 

Pathways to Recovery in Phoenix-Talent Schools

Phoenix-Talent Schools will use its $497,598 award to launch Pathways to Recovery: Integrated School-Based Supports for Students and Families Impacted by the Opioid Crisis. This initiative combines three strategies: increasing access to on-site substance use and mental health counseling; expanding the use of evidence-based screening tools to better identify student strengths and detect risks early; and coordinating a care system that quickly and effectively connects students and families with school- and community-based services.

Together, these efforts will give students confidential, strengths-based opportunities to share their needs, provide immediate professional support on campus, and ensure no student falls through the cracks when services are needed.

“These grant funds will help us bring hope and healing to students and families impacted by the opioid crisis, while also strengthening prevention efforts so future generations can recover, grow, and thrive,” Phoenix-Talent Schools Superintendent Brent Barry said.