The Worcester Public Schools received close to $1.9 million for the Worcester’s Healthy Environments and Resilience in Schools Initiative (HEARS) project to implement an evidence-based Flexible Framework to integrate trauma-sensitive routines and individual supports into the school day at four elementary schools and one middle school in Worcester. HEARS brought together advances in brain science, child development, and best practices to address childhood adversity in our complex society to create school environments that support children’s health, social and emotional development, and academic success. The project included a parent engagement component.

As part of the project, a school-based health center at Worcester East Middle School operated by Family Health Center Worcester was renovated and opened in April 2018. The center provides access to health care and behavioral health services to more than 800 students. HEARS created a system of care with community-based mental health agencies and providers who provide group counseling to students after school.

2015-2020

Total Granted:

$1,875,480

Worcester HEARS Final Evaluation Report August 2020

News
◊ “We really took to heart the lessons learned” Worcester expands student trauma initiative
Worcester Telegram & Gazette, May 26, 2021, Worcester HEARS
◊ School-based health center opens at Worcester East Middle School
Worcester Telegram & Gazette, April 5, 2018, Worcester HEARS