A message from the Superintendent

Mike Halley | Superintendent

Collaboration between healthcare systems, schools, community organizations, and those impacted by mental health and suicide can help ensure young people live and learn in supportive environments. These partnerships are essential to ensuring that individuals can access the support, services and resources they need. Here at Valentine Community Schools it is all about building relationships with our parents, students and community. Our mission is that every student will learn skills to adapt, thrive and live successfully.

Learn more about the AWARE Grant.

Mike Halley

Superintendent, Valentine Community Schools


Messages from Leadership

A message from:

A message from:

A message from:


Meet the Valentine Community Schools Mental Health Team

Cristen Witte | Special Education Director, Ed.S | School Psychologist BCBA | Title IX Coordinator

Shawna Fullerton | Nebraska, LIMHP | South Dakota, LCSW-PIP

Jennie Manning | School Counselor, Valentine High School

Candi Cronin | School Counselor, Valentine Middle School

Angela Jordan | School Counselor, Valentine Elementary School

Stacy Stec | School Nurse, RN, Valentine Community Schools

Bonnie LaDeaux | AWARE Grant Manager, Valentine Community Schools


A message from Emma


Meet the film team

Emma Benoit is a deeply passionate suicide prevention activist, survivor, and public speaker. She has shared her powerful story and message with thousands of people at events including: LivingWorks and California Department of Education Youth Summit, National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health Conference, LSU School of Social Work Conference, Arkansas Youth Mental Health Conference, Hope Rising Suicide Prevention Summit and the Hope Squad National Conference.

Emma Benoit | Activist & Survivor

Greg Dicharry is a filmmaker and mental health advocate who has received awards for his work in youth mental health from some of the nation's leading organizations including Mental Health America, SAMHSA, The National Council for Behavioral Health and Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health. He is also the founder of SmileStyle Entertainment and prior to My Ascension he co-directed and produced the 2018 Award winning film Suicide the Ripple Effect.

Greg Dicharry | Filmmaker