“The STRONG program supports the child, supports the family, and supports the school’s staff members so we can continue to move forward, building on the positive for the student.”

Ronnie Jones is the Dean of Students at Greater Holy Temple Christian Academy in Milwaukee. Ronnie’s journey with Christian Family Solutions (CFS) began when he was searching for alternative ways to support students struggling with behavioral and emotional struggles. He learned about the STRONG Child & Adolescent Day Treatment Program and believed the program’s mental health support would be a good fit for one of his students.

Despite being academically proficient, this student’s behavior posed significant obstacles to his learning and development, and his outbursts were also a challenge for the teacher and other students. Ronnie recognized the child’s need for intervention. Believing that expulsion from school was not the answer, he advocated for the student’s participation in STRONG.

STRONG is an intensive mental health program for children ages 4-17 who face significant behavioral and mental health issues. STRONG’s holistic approach is tailored to address the unique needs of each child. The program offers strategies for coping with trauma, managing emotions, and fostering healthy relationships.

Ronnie witnessed firsthand the positive changes in his student, who gradually gained control over his emotions, communicated more effectively, and embraced positive behaviors. Since then, Ronnie continues to refer students to STRONG.

“I go to the kids’ neighborhoods and their homes and see what they’re dealing with, and it’s sad. It’s heartbreaking to see what our kids go through on a daily basis. I started to think about how we can better support not only our Greater Holy staff and students, but also our parents.” STRONG, with its compassionate approach and commitment to Christian values, fills a vital gap in addressing the complex issues that many Milwaukee children are experiencing. The program not only helps the kids but also supports their families.

Ronnie underscores the interconnectedness of student success, family support, and educator well-being.

“STRONG not only provides for the child, but also helps the parent and shares strategies for staff members and teachers. When you put all those together, you’re building better support for the child.”

By fostering collaboration and understanding, the program creates a nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally.

Ronnie’s advocacy for STRONG reflects his belief in its effectiveness and necessity. He encourages fellow Milwaukee school leaders to embrace STRONG as a vital tool in supporting the holistic well-being of their students and wishes every struggling child could access the program’s resources, empowering them to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

STRONG counselors and staff apply evidence-based treatment to foster healing in a safe and structured environment, addressing underlying causes like trauma, depression, and anxiety. The work is difficult, and the cost to provide this intensive treatment exceeds what Medicaid and most commercial insurance plans will reimburse. CFS is determined to raise funds to run the program because it is truly impacting young lives, as well as the schools, families, and communities of the children who receive treatment at STRONG.

Ronnie Jones believes STRONG is making a positive impact in Milwaukee. He appreciates STRONG’s ongoing communication with parents, guardians, and educators to support each child’s progress and long-term well-being.

This comprehensive approach fosters resilience in children and creates hope for a brighter future.

Learn more about Ronnie’s story in our STRONG video series:  An Educator’s Perspective and An Educator’s Perspective on Student Success

We are grateful to our partner schools and our donors who help make care accessible to more youth.