Sept. 21, 2026 – From school counselors to crisis teams to trusted adults, there are people ready to help. As Duval County Public Schools recognizes September as Suicide Prevention Month, Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier says students, staff, and families should remember they’re never alone.

“It’s okay to ask for help,” said Bernier. “Whether you ask for that help at home, whether you ask for it at school, I think it’s really important you ask, because it’s only then we’re going to be 100% sure that we can provide the resources you need.”

In a recent conversation with Director of School Behavioral Health Katrina Taylor, Dr. Bernier stressed the importance of being transparent while remaining vigilant and ensuring students and families know where to turn for support.

You can listen to their conversation by watching the videos below. Families can also read our Suicide Prevention Tips and Resources to learn more about how they can support children.