“(In the) past (I was part of) Snowball. A teen staff member (told me about it). It’s a good and supportive group (with) great food,” senior Alexis Gomez said.

Many students enjoyed finding someone who was willing to listen and help.

“In the past, (I was part of) Youth Crossroads.  A school counselor (told me about it). I would (recommend it because) it was nice to talk to adults who seemed to care and wanted to listen and genuinely help,” senior Angela Pedroza said.

Morton East is full of various support groups that are still active today.

“Throughout the years Morton East has offered various support groups, depending on student needs.  Some of these groups are Social skills group, Grief group, Think First/Mindfulness group, Gang Involvement Intervention group, New Moms group, Dad’s group, Executive Functioning group, to name some.  These groups are run by counselors, social workers, school psychologists, speech therapist, and Youth Crossroads, collaboratively.  Some groups are still being offered this year, but in a virtual setting since last March.  So far, attendance has been significantly lower than when groups met in person.   I think this can be due to scheduling, concerns with confidentiality, some students not inclined to do more things via the computer after being in class all day, as well as all of the changes that COVID has brought on for everyone.  Most students have preferred — and are encouraged — to meet with support staff individually.  This can be done virtually or in person.  It is easy for students to get in touch with ANY one of the support staff they would like to talk to.  Contact info can be found on the Morton web site or, the easiest way is a TEAMS message,” School Counselor Patricia Menges said.