09/4/2025

Parents/Guardians,

In an effort to identify and assist students with their mental health and wellness needs, Sidney Public Schools is once again utilizing the Rural Montana Behavioral Institute to provide a free screener for all students in 6th-12th grade. This screener is NOT required, and any parent/guardian who does not want their student to participate is able to complete an opt-out form. Both the HS and MS opt-out forms are available above.  

In reviewing data that has been collected pre- and post-COVID, mental health issues are prevalent among teen and adolescent adults throughout the nation.  Rural areas can be especially susceptible to anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts/actions.  In response to this, we want to be able to screen all students and provide any students who show signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or severe depression with resources to help them through those extreme situations.

All data from the screener will be collected in a way that protects the privacy of all students.  They will utilize an ID number that will only be identifiable by school counselors and principals, in the event a student is targeted as high-risk.  Once identified, parents will be notified and presented with the options that are available for their student.  All students flagged as at-risk will be given the option to seek tele-med therapy with a licensed psychiatrist or counselor to help develop an individualized plan for the student.

SHS and SMS will offer the screening once in the fall semester and once again in the spring. Sidney High School will be starting its fall student screeners on Monday, September 8, and Sidney Middle School will begin on Monday, September 15.  The corresponding screening dates for each grade are below. 

Our district wants to do everything in our power to help our students overcome struggles both academically and emotionally.  This screener will allow us to help with the emotional wellness of our students. 

Sincerely,

Brent Sukut
Sidney Public Schools, Superintendent

Testing Dates for Sidney Schools

High School

• Monday, Sept. 8 - Seniors

• Tuesday, Sept. 9 - Juniors

• Wednesday, Sept. 10 - Sophomores

• Thursday, Sept. 11 - Freshmen & make-up

Middle School

• Monday, Sept. 15 - Thursday, Sept. 18