Boardhawk: My name is Yaeel Duarte and I am a mother of a DPS student, a community leader and a strong advocate for mental health in our schools, communities and homes. 

I recently started my own organization which focuses on providing mental health awareness and support and suicide prevention to families with adolescents and adults, primarily for our Spanish/Latino speaking communities. I firmly believe in serving and connecting with the community, which I have been doing for 17 years.  

I was surprised to learn that the DPS Board of Education would limit time for families, students, and the community to share their concerns and support through public comment. I know through professional experience the importance of taking the time to listen to situations in order to connect and provide resources and solutions. 

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