Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 is keeping tabs on what’s going on in the complex minds of students.
In a recent report to the board, Director of Instruction Sharon Collin outlined what is being done in the Mental Health in Schools Strategy.
She noted the network of educators to support children’s well-being has grown, adding the district has prioritized the hiring of more child and youth care workers to support mental health and related issues.
“Schools are recognized as the most appropriate environment for universal health promotion, as well as early recognition of mental health challenges,” Collin said.
She pointed out that several times this year school councillors, professionals, and Indigenous support workers recognized students in distress and put them on a pathway to care. They also came together to learn strategies on preventing child and youth exploitation.
Collin also highlighted the district’s work in building inclusive school communities for students who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+
Lastly, Collin noted the expanded offering of a substance use prevention program called ‘Preventer,’ which is taught to Grade 8 students in Invermere
In addition, there have been professional development workshops and coaching in ‘physical literature,’ and teaching staff how to engage students through movement in class.
