Why does mental health matter?
At Fredericksburg City Public Schools, we believe that caring for a child's mind is just as important as caring for their body. Students face real challenges every day, and it's important that they have safe, trusted ways to reach out for help.
So what's Alongside?
In January 2025, we launched a new tool called Alongside. This app provides an extra layer of support to provide students with helpful mental health resources and help our staff catch signs that a student might be struggling. It helps by providing access to tools, check-ins, goal setting, and optional chatbot support. It’s meant to supplement—not replace—real human help, like school counselors, therapists, or crisis services.
Since its launch, the app has already helped us identify students in immediate need and connect them with important support services.
How Alongside Uses AI Safely
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) component is small and highly controlled. The system is closed, meaning the software and algorithms are not open to the public, for security purposes. Alongside uses AI to match students with trusted, clinically reviewed resources, like exercises, journal prompts, coping strategies, or reminders. It does not generate freeform advice without oversight. All content is developed or monitored by clinicians. For serious mental health concerns, the system uses built-in security protocols instead of relying solely on AI to make judgment calls. When in doubt, Alongside defers to human support specialists at our schools.
Why This Design?
To keep student data safe and private
To avoid "hallucinations" from AI
To maintain responsibility in mental health guidance
To give students timely, accessible support, especially outside normal school hours
Parent Choice
Participation in this mental health resource is always optional. If you were prefer that your student not use Alongside, you may opt out at any time. You also may change your mind at any time. Please contact your child's school if you have questions about opting out.
Takeaways
Alongside provides an additional safety net for students.
It connects students to clinically reviewed resources made by real, licensed mental health professionals.
It's safe, secure, and private.
You always have the choice to opt out.
Thank you for supporting our efforts to care for every child, every day.