October 24, 2022 - Support Resources for those affected by Central Visual and Performing Arts High School tragedy
Dear University Community,
My heart breaks for the senseless loss of life today at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School after a shooting took the lives of three individuals and is affecting many, many more across our region. As you may know, UMSL engages in many strong partnerships within the Saint Louis Public School district including placing teacher candidates and counselors in K-12 schools across the region. We also serve hundreds of SLPS district students and parents annually through our precollegiate Bridge Program, including students at Central VPA.
Please know that our thoughts are with everyone in the Central VPA High School community as they move through the terrible aftermath of this violence. We also recognize that there may be individuals within our campus community who are directly affected by today’s tragedy. For those individuals, know that we are with you and I encourage you to consider utilizing some of our campus-based supports outlined below to help you through this difficult time.
UMSL Counseling Services: Students can make an appointment with a counselor to discuss a variety of concerns, including personal, psychological and crisis intervention – including participation in weekly online group support sessions. 314-516-5711 or visit 131 MSC, Monday-Friday, 8-5. For emergency and crisis counseling support during holidays, evenings or weekends, counselors are available at 855-275-0210
Make a CARE Referral: Members of the campus community are encouraged to make a CARE referral when concerned about a student, regardless of how insignificant the concern may seem. Referrals are reviewed by the Campus Assessment, Response and Evaluation team that can then provide direct assistance to students.
Employee Assistance Program: Available to all employees, EAP is a confidential, professional service for employees, their families, retirees and organizational units with services ranging from individual counseling services to unit-level supports. 314-516-5824
Community Psychological Services / Center for Behavioral Health: A not-for-profit outpatient mental health center established by UMSL to provide psychological services to residents of the St. Louis metropolitan area. CPS: 314-516-5824, CBH: 314-516-4357
Children’s Advocacy Center: A university-based, multidisciplinary center that provides high-quality trauma-focused services to youth, families and the community. 314-516-6798
Missouri Institute of Mental Health: Partners with governmental agencies, human service organizations and research teams in an effort to improve lives through the promotion of mental health via research, evaluation, professional training, program development and community outreach. 314-516-8400
Sincerely,
Kristin Sobolik
Chancellor
University of Missouri–St. Louis
