Imagine a time when the term “mental health” was almost alien in the school context, and many educators, through no fault of their own, were unprepared to tackle this quiet topic. . Fast forward to 2024 and the story changes dramatically. At the center of this transformation in La Crosse, Wisconsin is a pioneering program at Aquinas Catholic School, led by experienced educator Mike Desmond and his colleague Rachel Feehan. Their mission is to weave mental health into the very fabric of educational culture and to recognize the critical role of mental health in the holistic development of students.
From the overlooked to front and center
Desmond recalls early in his career that there was a total lack of consideration for mental health in educational settings. This was a time when such issues, if acknowledged at all, were dealt with in silence, often leaving students to work through their own struggles in isolation. This historical oversight set the stage for Desmond and Feehan’s current work advocating for a comprehensive approach to mental health in schools. Developed in partnership with Driftless Recovery Services, this initiative represents a major advance from the past and is designed to support mental health counseling, employee assistance, and students as well as parents and carers. We offer workshops.
Addressing modern challenges through connection and faith
Aquinas Catholic School’s programs are not just about counseling services. It is about rebuilding connections in a community torn apart by the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing the modern challenges faced by students. From the pervasive influence of social media to the complexities of substance abuse and family relationships, this effort takes a holistic perspective. Importantly, we incorporate faith into discussions about mental health and balance awareness with responsibility. Desmond is optimistic about the program’s impact and emphasizes the value of success stories as a measure of its effectiveness, a refreshing perspective in a field often dominated by data-driven evaluations. did.
Challenging the stigma, one story at a time
Central to the success of this initiative is its commitment to combating the stigma surrounding mental health. Aquinas Catholic School not only educates the mind, but nurtures the soul by fostering an environment where students feel safe to share their experiences and ask for help. This approach is reflected in broader conversations about mental health in education, as highlighted in resources such as K12, which emphasizes the role of communities in supporting student well-being. Through partnership and open dialogue, the program aims to transform the way mental health is recognized and addressed in educational institutions, making mental health a cornerstone of the learning experience rather than an afterthought.
The journey of Aquinas Catholic School in La Crosse is a testament to the evolving understanding of mental health in education. From a time when such issues were barely whispered in the hallways to now when they are openly discussed and incorporated into the curriculum, the progress is clear. Under visionary leadership like Mike Desmond and Rachel Feehan, the future of mental health awareness in schools shines brighter, promising a generation of students who are not only academically resilient but also mentally resilient.
