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Andalusia High School is participating in the Love Like Lexi Project for students in grades 9 through 12 and has scheduled a parent assembly Monday, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m.

The Love Like Lexi project was created by Andrea Mills, a mother from Smiths Station, Alabama, whose daughter died of suicide in 2019. The goal of the project is to provide hope to teenagers who may be dealing with depression or other emotional issues.

“The Love Like Lexi Project exists to provide students with hope, self-worth, and purpose as we raise awareness of suicide. I’m so excited for our students to take part in this process and learn more about themselves and their peers. Too often, our children often feel alone and hopeless. Through Love Like Lexi and the accompanying curriculum, it is our hope to help students find hope and purpose,” AHS School Counselor Tori Adams said.

The mission is to empower students to be part of the solution while helping give students the tools needed to navigate through life’s challenges.

“This is done by sharing Lexi’s story, which has inspired many. This powerful presentation is given during a school or group assembly and has positively impacted thousands of students’ lives. It is a proactive approach, which creates an environment of hope, kindness, and connection. The assembly is the first step of the Love Like Lexi Project.”

The LLL Project recognizes the important role parents play in the success of this initiative with the project involved throughout the entire project. The background, content, and goals of the project are shared through a parent assembly that all parents are urged to attend. An opportunity for questions is also provided. Refreshments will be provided. Childcare and homework help will also be available.

A student assembly will be held Tuesday, Feb. 14, at AHS. Teachers received training for the project on Jan. 18.

“Students will also be given the opportunity to take part in the LLL Workbook that is designed to build resilience, problem-solving, personal reflection, and self-awareness of one’s values and character. This workbook is the second step of the project and is the very toolbox needed to help create a permanent positive change for each student individually,” she said.

At the conclusion of the project, students will participate in the last step called the Love Project. This community service project is chosen by the students themselves and can be completed within their school or their community.

“Each student is now ready to give away to others what they received through the program. As students exit the project, their outcomes show stronger emotional skills, better ability to cope through everyday challenges, character development, and strengthening social connections.”

For more information email adamst@andalusia.k12.al.us, visit lovelikelexiproject.com, or call the high school office at 334-222-7569.