Rural School Case Study

Erika is a K-12 school counselor in a small, rural public school in Nebraska, serving approximately 120 students. The town in which it’s situated has only 200 residents, and some students drive 45 miles to get to school. The population is 80% White and 20% two or more races. This close-knit, primarily ranching community lacks nearby resources, with the closest big-box store an hour away. Given these constraints and the lack of mental health professionals in the area, the need for accessible mental health support is critical.

This past year, Erika implemented Closegap for students in grades 3-12. Before using Closegap, Erika relied on teacher referrals and direct student requests to identify those in need of support. This process often missed quieter students who were struggling internally. Erika has observed significant positive impacts on student well-being, making Closegap an essential resource in their rural environment.

Throughout her time using Closegap, Erika was able to check in and spot students in distress. One sophomore girl reached out through Closegap expressing that she was "tired of it" and wanted everything to be over – prompting Erika to immediately arrange a meeting with the student and her parents and ultimately get her professional help. Another sophomore boy was flagged for frequent low energy, sadness, anxiety, and insecurity. Erika helped him facilitate a conversation with his mom to get him help before issues escalated.

A third seventh-grade girl indicated overwhelming anxiety and needed to talk, which Erika arranged. These stories illustrate Erika’s sentiments that

“Closegap enables me to catch the students I didn’t know were struggling and make better use of my time.”

Erika had a 12th grader she kept an eye on. This student was adopted into a family with a strange dynamic, often oscillating between extreme highs and lows. Some days, she appeared happy and engaged, while others, she seemed overwhelmed. Erika watched her closely but hadn't found a definitive reason to step in—until one crucial day. This student, who had never used Closegap before, logged in to complete a check-in and left Erika a clear, concerning message: "I just don’t know if I can do this anymore." Erika sprang into action, knowing the urgency of such a statement. She found the student, who had already contacted the 988 crisis hotline, and brought her into her office. Initially hesitant to talk, the student eventually opened up. She revealed her struggles, which her parents had consistently downplayed, believing she would be fine without professional help.

It turned out the student had a suicide plan. This check-in, however, was a turning point. Erika notes how Closegap’s platform provided a safe space for the student to share how she was feeling without fear of judgment. The student’s parents, finally understanding the gravity of the situation, took her to the hospital where she was evaluated. She started medication and began weekly therapy sessions with a counselor.

Upon returning to school, the girl continued to use Closegap to check in regularly. These digital interactions were complemented by face-to-face meetings with Erika, where they discussed her progress and any ongoing concerns. This student, who once felt so hopeless, graduated high school this Spring. She’s doing well now, thanks to the timely intervention facilitated by Closegap.

Her story is a powerful testament to the impact Closegap can have on students' lives, providing a vital connection in their darkest moments.

How One Rural School Uses Closegap to Foster Life-Saving Connections with Students