Dr. Natasha Scott, Director of Student Services

“It works alongside the school staff and not in lieu of the human connection."

Dr. Natasha Scott, Director of Student Services for Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville NC, emphasizes to her community that Alongside is designed to complement, not replace, traditional mental health services. “We don't think of Alongside as a first line of defense,” Dr. Scott explained. “It is not a replacement for the human connection provided by our counselors, social workers, psychologists, teachers, and liaisons. We see it as a supplement.”

In a district where some students may be hesitant to engage in face-to-face conversations, the app provides an alternative. Dr. Scott pointed out that many students turn to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram for advice, often encountering misinformation. Alongside offers a safer and more supportive option.

“The title of the app was important,” she said. “It works alongside the school staff and not in lieu of the human connection. It is not the first line of defense. The premier professionals who work in Cumberland County Schools as counselors and social workers are still the primary support.”

Dr. Scott also appreciates how the app offers support outside of regular school hours. “I like the fact that it's available on the weekend, in the evening, and during the summertime,” she added. This accessibility ensures students can access help whenever they need it, even when traditional resources are unavailable.

Leveraging Data to Understand Student Needs

One of the standout features of the Alongside app for Cumberland County Schools is its data dashboard, which provides valuable insights into student needs and interests. “There's a lot you can learn about your students in terms of what they consider to be their needs and what they find most interesting,” Dr. Scott said. This data-driven approach aligns with the district’s focus on Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and ensures a continuum of care, particularly given the shortage of mental health personnel.

“We've struggled to find an SEL program that high school students would appreciate, but Alongside provides an SEL learning opportunity in a format that kids like.”

The app’s ability to support social-emotional learning (SEL) in a format that resonates with high school students is another key advantage. “We've struggled to find an SEL program that high school students would appreciate,” Dr. Scott admitted. “But Alongside provides an SEL learning opportunity in a format that kids like.” The app empowers students to develop coping skills and create action plans on their own, promoting a sense of agency and self-reliance.

Dr. Scott highlighted how the app also supports teaching soft skills and self-regulation, essential for future success. “Alongside does a great job of fostering these skills in students,” she said. “It aligns with many of the goals we have in our district, reinforcing important life skills that contribute to both academic and personal growth.”