The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic are a lot to handle, for all of us. Naturally, parents are concerned about how their children are handling it, and what they can do to help. Parents with young children certainly face a difficult challenge (especially those working at home). But at least their kids’ needs are more […]
Mental Health in Education Blog
Student Anxiety Strategies for Teachers
With the dramatic rise of students experiencing debilitating anxiety, every teacher is now dealing with this issue. And the reality is that most teachers have no training on how to best manage student anxiety in the classroom, whether it’s a physical classroom or a virtual one.
Conducting a Student Mental Health Needs Assessment
The movement for supporting mental health in schools is gaining ground: a NJ state assembly committee signed off on a bill that would mandate depression screenings for public school students in 7th through 12th grades (with parental consent). New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also signed legislation that requires all New Jersey public schools to include mental health instruction in […]
PODCAST: Strategies for Funding Student Mental Health Programs
In this episode, Chris Leonard talks with Pat Hovey, a leader and innovator among NJ Directors of Special Services. Pat has worked to implement and fund successful programs for students with mental health problems in several New Jersey school districts, as well as serving as an advisor to numerous other districts. Chris and Pat discuss […]
PODCAST: Navigating Stress During the Holidays: Supporting Students & Staff
In this episode, Chris Leonard talks with Dr. Mary Rose Scalo, a former Director of Special Services in Wayne and in Parsippany. Chris and Mary Rose discuss strategies for dealing with the heightened stress experienced by students, families, and staff during the holiday season and when transitioning back to school after the break.
Behavior Problems & Better Teacher Strategies
Teaching is a tough job. You are expected to help every student learn and achieve good grades, but that’s only the beginning. You’re often in the position of acting like a parent or a counselor: teaching and modeling appropriate behavior, communication, and social skills. The problem is, your degree in education didn’t prepare you adequately […]