Verdant grant to fund Whole Families, Whole Communities pilot project serving middle schoolers and their families

The Foundation for Edmonds School District has launched the Whole Families, Whole Community program at Alderwood Middle School, supported by a $25,000 grant from Verdant Health Commission. This initiative aims to provide coordinated mental health resources, tutoring, and family services to foster long-term wellbeing for students and their families. Assistant Superintendent Greg Schwab highlighted the critical role of middle school as a time for early intervention. The program plans to serve 25-30 students weekly during its pilot phase, scaling up to 40-50 students in the upcoming fall. Partnerships with local organizations will ensure culturally responsive services that reflect the district’s diverse population.

Executive Director Deborah Brandi noted the program's goal of building stronger connections between schools and families. The initiative aligns with Verdant's mission to promote mental health among children and adolescents. Ultimately, the vision is to expand this support to all middle schools in the district, potentially reaching 300-400 students weekly over the next three years.