Park County Youth Mental Health

At Rural Resilience, we recognize the urgent need for mental health support for our students. Being in a rural setting presents unique challenges that have a profound impact on our young people. A recent 2024 student study highlighted that Gardiner Public School students are facing alarming levels of emotional abuse, threats, and physical injuries—situations that are more severe than those reported by students in other schools throughout Park County and the state. Tragically, the students have also communicated experiences of suicide attempts, which deeply concerns us all.

In response to these pressing needs, Rural Resilience, in collaboration with Gardiner Public School, Shields Valley Elementary and High School, Arrowhead School, and North Yellowstone Education Foundation is dedicated to finding solutions to support our students. 

During the 2025-2026 school year, Rural Resilience was able to secure a therapist to provide support to seven students one day a week. However, with a waiting list of eight additional students seeking help, it is evident that we need more resources. We are actively searching for a new therapist for the upcoming school year, with the hope of finding someone who can provide care at least two days a week in Gardiner Public School and one-to-two days a week in Shields Valley.

What makes Gardiner Public School's situation particularly challenging is the geographic dispersion of our students, which often leads to feelings of social isolation. Our student population is roughly divided into thirds—one third resides in Gardiner, another third in Mammoth, and the remaining third is spread out as far as Livingston. This distribution can make it difficult for students to connect with friends outside of school. Additionally, our students attend school only four days a week, leaving three days where they are separated from their peers.

To address these critical needs, Rural Resilience has committed to raising $30,000 annually to support our mental health initiatives. This funding will help facilitate social-emotional learning in the classroom, as well as providing financial support for both behavioral specialists and therapists.

It is heartbreaking to note that in 2024, our student survey revealed 13 attempted suicides. We urge everyone in our community to come together and support our students’ mental health. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in their lives.