In a sweeping act of generosity, the Bethesda Foundation sent over behavioral health specialist Gwyn Griffiths. An angel with an office. An angel who is there from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day, month after month and year after year. Children don't have to be diagnosed, processed and classified to be served. So when kindergartners start to school at North Avondale, Mrs. Griffiths teaches them about cooperation and fairness.
Parents come in for help with family concerns, such as communication.
Teachers stop by for tips on dealing with behavior. We're seeing children who would have never been identified for help before. Mrs. Costantini says the school has seen a decline in discipline problems, better relationships between students, and a renewed focus on academics. Bethesda Foundation has since extended the service to Bond Hill Academy and partially funds a program at Parham Elementary. Cincinnati Public Schools have never needed friends more.