Student Supports

AnnMarie's Law requires the Illinois State Board of Education and local school boards to create policies ensuring that students receive age-appropriate lessons about youth suicide and prevention. Each year the Valley View School District provides programming to address suicide and depression awareness and prevention in both the middle school (grade 7) and high school (during Health class). The SOS Signs of Suicide Prevention program is provided through the generosity and support of Elyssa’s Mission.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for young people ages 10-34 (CDC, 2014). Most deaths by suicide are preventable. Depression is the leading risk factor for suicide, yet sadly often the people closest are unaware of their child’s depression and suicidal thoughts. This program provides a video about the signs of suicide and depression and the steps one can take if they believe a friend or loved one may be at risk. The program also has a Depression Screening Form and Response Form for students to complete and be followed up with by building clinicians if needed.

• SOS Signs of Suicide Prevention Program
• AnnMarie Foundation: The foundation that helped to create AnnMarie’s Law. The website provides both local and national resources.
• The Trevor Project: A support site for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender youth who are experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts. 

Contact Safe2Help Illinois: dial 844-4-SAFEIL, Text SAFE2 (72332), email help@safe2helpil.com

Erin’s Law is named after childhood sexual assault survivor, author, speaker and activist Erin Merryn, who is the founder and President of Erin’s Law, which is registered with the State of Illinois and the IRS as a 501 (c)(4) non-profit social welfare organization. After Erin introduced the legislation in her home state of Illinois, the bill was named “Erin’s Law” after her by legislators.  Similar laws have been passed by a majority of states nationwide. “Erin’s Law” requires that all public schools in each state implement a prevention-oriented child sexual abuse program. “Erin’s Law” was signed into Illinois State Law on January 24, 2013 (105 ILCS 5/10-23.13).

Erin’s Law Parent Letter

Erin's Law Material (Books and Powerpoints) 2021-22

Erin's Law Parent Night Presentation - English  |  Spanish