Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is pleased to announce expanded partnerships with Identity, Inc. and Tree of Hope Association in all high schools. 

As part of the partnership with the MCPS School System Medical Office, Identity will expand trauma awareness and related programs for students and caregivers. The Tree of Hope Association will enhance resource access for youth and families struggling with substance use through peer support, mentorship and capacity building across MCPS high schools. 

“This expansion of services for our schools represents the deep commitment to ensure students are physically, socially and emotionally well in order to learn, ” said Dr. Patricia Kapunan, MCPS System Medical Officer. “We are excited and look forward to the great support and access to resources this will mean for our students and their families and creating a safe space for students who may be dealing with trauma or substance use.”

Already known for their innovative community-centered services and deep commitment to Montgomery County, both organizations were recently awarded funding by the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission to expand access to high-quality behavioral health and wraparound services for students and families. 

Identity currently operates five of the county’s high school wellness centers (Wheaton, Watkins Mill, Gaithersburg, John F. Kennedy, and Seneca Valley High Schools) which provide a broad array of programs and services focused on supporting the physical, social, emotional, and mental well-being of the students throughout their high-school years.

​Tree of Hope Association is a non-profit organization built by people of the recovery community, friends, and family. The group works to help people get a fresh start by offering peer services, workforce development, and social integration.