Downriver districts prepared to support student mental health in 2022-23 school year – The News Herald

September 4, 2022

2 minutes read

Another Michigan summer has come and gone.

Mark Greathead

Despite the sun setting on the warm weather and endless days spent at the beach or park, there is still much to look forward to as the school year approaches. From getting locker assignments to seeing friends for the first time in months, having students in our buildings again is always exciting.

In addition to our commitment to support these happy, exciting moments, schools in the Downriver community are equally prepared to help students beyond the academics by investing in social-emotional learning and mental health programming.

Across the state of Michigan, school budgets for mental health programming have increased due to funds received from COVID federal aid (ESSER funds). Many districts will also see an increase of mental health grants and the implementation of school-based centers as a result of the School Aid Budget passed in June. These types of programs and services are critical as they help students feel safe and cared for in their school environment — allowing them to focus on academics and extracurriculars.

At Woodhaven-Brownstown School District, we’ve used this increase in funding to hire additional counselors and interventionalists, while also forming a partnership with Care Solace, an online tool that connects district families and employees to mental health care providers and substance use treatment centers free of charge.

Though the stigma surrounding mental health conversations has long since faded into the background and thus provided safe spaces for self-expression, asking for help remains the most difficult part of receiving care. While districts work to enhance their in-school mental health services, here are some ways parents can help their children prepare for the new school year.

• Form habits and routines before the school year even begins. Having a consistent schedule to stick to creates structure and helps students and parents have familiarity in their day.

• Spend time talking about the school day with your child without distractions, emphasizing your support and encouraging them to be open about their feelings.

• Encourage 60 minutes of exercise for students each day as it promotes healthy endorphins and physical fitness.

• Prepare three healthy meals a day complete with a protein, fruit and vegetable to improve cognitive speed and health.

• Research your district’s mental health support services and identify your child’s counselor in the event you need to reach out for additional support.

As educators, we know that emotional well-being is a key aspect of achieving academic success. We are prepared to meet their needs and look forward to welcoming back our students for a fun, safe and successful school year.

Mark Greathead is the superintendent of Woodhaven-Brownstown School District.