During the Feb. 23 Whitehall-Coplay Communities That Care meeting, Allison Frantz, Suicide Prevention Coalition of Lehigh County coordinator, reported the organization is redesigning its website and asked for feedback.

She noted the coalition is adding a youth section to try and reach a younger audience. It was noted the section will include information on resources and how to reach out and get help.

Since there are a number of students involved with the CTC, Frantz asked for their thoughts and input on what that section should look like. Some of their suggestions included using dynamic fonts and styles to grab attention and presenting the information in smaller chunks, as opposed to long paragraphs, to help keep readers engaged. It was also recommended they include a clear and simple breakdown of the steps involved with getting help.

Additionally, forming a stronger and more active social media presence was recommended as a way to drive more activity to the website. Frantz noted the group has a Facebook page but can look into adding an Instagram account to better connect with younger generations.

The committee addressing low commitment to school discussed the problem of trying to create time during the day for students to be involved with clubs and activities since many have after-school obligations, such as jobs and family commitments. They detailed the paradox of offering this time but not forcing students into something they might not be interested in. That could have the opposite effect of what the committee is working toward.

One suggestion was taking a first step of initiating an open gym time in the mornings before school. There are logistics that need to be worked out, such as who would be watching over this time and supervising the students.

The same logistical concerns were at the forefront of adding new clubs and activities, since they need to have an adult involved. Finding the time and resources to allocate to these activities was a concern.

Tyrone Fisher, of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley, noted the organization has funding available specifically for working with Whitehall-Coplay School District and can help organize and find mentors to lead students in some activities.

Additionally, Laura Long, of Fellowship Community, said Fellowship residents are interested in connecting with the students and can help serve as mentors.

The substance use prevention committee discussed the low numbers representing WCSD in the Strengthening Families program, held in conjunction with Catasauqua Area School District. The committee wants to use school events, such as the family night, which is set for April 17, to spread information and build a base of understanding among families in the district before next year.

Additionally, bringing back the SADD Club - Students Against Destructive Decisions - was discussed. The club would need an adviser in the school.

The committee suggested bringing back the substance use prevention PSAs the CTC made a few years ago. These could be shown to parents in the district.

The mental wellness committee discussed its new initiative to have still graphics or images created to help spread awareness of mental health issues and share resources with any students who may be struggling. The adviser of the Aevidum Club at Whitehall High School expressed interest in having the students work on this project.

There was discussion about being able to share these images in more places than the recent video PSA the WHS studio classes created for the committee, including at Whitehall Township, Coplay Borough and Lehigh County buildings. WHS Principal Dr. Peter Mayes reported the PSA is being added to the news show on a weekly rotation and will be shown on digital signage during sporting events.

Looking ahead to next year, the committee also discussed wanting to create a fact sheet or informational flier that could be posted in the bathrooms at WHS and Whitehall-Coplay Middle School to continue the efforts to reach students.

The next Whitehall-Coplay CTC meeting is set for 9 a.m. March 22 at WHS, 2800 MacArthur Road.