Schulenburg Devotes Weeks to Different Focuses: Kindness, Anti-Bullying, Etc.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic began, we were in the midst of a series spotlighting student mental health measures at area schools, spurred when the mother of a teen suicide victim shared her suggestions with a local school board.
When schools closed we took a break from the series, but we conclude it today:
We asked all five superintendents in Fayette County two questions:
1) What are some efforts your school has made in the past to address the mental health needs of your students?
2) Looking forward, how is your school district planning to address mental health needs at your school?
Today’s focus in on Schulenburg:
From superintendent Duane Limbaugh: 1) What are some efforts
1) What are some efforts your school has made in the past to address the mental health needs of your students?
We have two counselors for the district, and have made partnerships with community organizations to help when needed.
2) Looking forward, what is your school district planning to address mental health needs at your school?
Continue the community partnerships, and always have an eye out for warning signs of students and other community members showing signs of depression and other mental health issues. Continue to educate the whole staff on the signs of mental illness.
From Callene Zapalac and Charles Henke, Schuleburg principals:
Things we are doing at the Secondary (for social/emotional learning).
1. Access to a Social/Emotional Counselor full time
2. THRIVE mentoring program in year 3. Identified students are paired with a mentor to meet each week.
3. Inspirational mottos and sayings throughout the bathrooms, hallways, and bulletin boards.
4. Trauma training provided to all staff at the beginning of year.
5. Suicide Awareness training required for all staff
6. Partnerships with Bluebonnet Trails and Turtlewing Foundation
7. Celebration of Kindness Week coordinated with the SEL Counselor
8. Presentation about depression, anxiety, and life choices from motivational speaker Austin Lanier
9. Recognition of students each month for showing good character and leadership qualities
10. Anti-bullying celebration and events coordinated in October for Anti-Bullying awareness
11. Use of Capturing Kids Hearts techniques including teachers welcoming the kids at the door, present in the hallway between classes
12. Solid Roots program used to monitor students daily emotional well-being and character lessons offered to help students deal with daily situations.
13. Speak Up online opportunity for students to reach out for help or to report other students they feel may need help
14. PALS and Teen Leadership courses offered to enhance student self-esteem and character building, as well as, leadership skills
15. Organizations developed to provide community service opportunities to keep students involved such as Student Council, National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Athletics
16. Hallways have a QR code with a direct link to SEL Counselor