By Maya Rahman-Rios, Elevo Content Manager
Last month, we shared a bit about how we support our students’ mental well-being. From our 5 Core Practices to our multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), we strive to create safe, inclusive educational environments for those we serve.
We also understand how difficult student mental health can be for our district partners and the broader educational space. With rising rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, school resources are often stretched thin. Many districts struggle to find the solutions to address the growing needs of their student populations. This shortage can result in long wait times for students seeking help and inadequate support for those who may be in crisis. Let’s explore these challenges and how Elevo can support you through them.
How Student Mental Health Can Be Challenging for Districts
Stigma
Despite increased rates of mental health difficulties, students may have a sense of shame or fear around seeking help. The stigma surrounding mental health can also result in parents or educators not having the understanding or awareness they need to recognize or address these challenges effectively. This can then lead to students’ struggles going unnoticed.
Lack of Funding
Having adequate funds to address student mental health concerns is also a challenge for districts. Many have limited budgets, which means that mental health services often take a backseat to other essential educational needs, leaving them underfunded and understaffed. Without adequate funding, school districts may find it challenging to implement comprehensive mental health initiatives that meet the needs of all students.
The Need for a Collaborative Approach
Student mental health issues are often multifaceted. To properly combat them, schools need to work closely with parents, healthcare providers, and community organizations to create a support network for students. Establishing and maintaining these partnerships requires time, effort, and effective communication, which can be challenging amid the day-to-day demands of running a school district.
How Elevo Can Support You
When it comes to a collaborative approach to student mental health, Elevo has you covered. Elevo understands the importance of working with school and district leaders to co-design the right objectives, then to show the kind of impact on mental wellness, learning outcomes, and student engagement that keeps families happy, all while securing continuous program funding for years to come.
Elevo is one of the only Expanded Learning providers to have a presence at the state level, developing and disseminating policies that ensure ELO programs have quality outcomes for our students. With ELO-P, districts are finally getting additional funds to invest in kids’ lives in the schoolyard (beyond the school day and the school year), so they can learn and thrive in the classroom, at home, and beyond.
Our coaches also give students the tools they need to learn how to manage their mental health. Their main goal is to create an environment of safety, trust, and belonging for all students. Elevo coaches are trained in tiered social, emotional, and behavioral restorative support, and we’re ready to bring them right to you.
Final Thoughts
Addressing student mental health challenges is a complex, demanding task for school districts. The rising prevalence of mental health issues, persistent stigma, limited funding, and the need for collaborative efforts all contribute to these challenges. By investing in mental well-being support for students and an inclusive, supportive environment, schools can help ensure that all students have the opportunity to thrive.
Let’s take on these difficulties together! Learn more about our offerings here, or book a meeting with an Elevo expert here by clicking on Partner With Us.
