mental health

Mental Health Training for District 227 Staff

The purpose of this proposal from the Sarah Robinson Group is to enhance the mental health awareness and support systems within School District 227 by focusing on staff development. This initiative aims to empower educators and school staff with the knowledge, resources, and tools necessary to recognize and address mental health challenges among their students and themselves. By prioritizing professional development in mental health, the proposal seeks to foster a culture of well-being within the school environment, reduce stigma associated with mental health issues, and create a supportive community where both staff and students can thrive. Ultimately, this initiative strives to improve the overall mental health outcomes for students while equipping staff to promote emotional resilience and create a nurturing educational atmosphere.


At the Sarah Robinson Group nfp, we believe that art, literacy and ​technology have the power to bridge the gaps that separate us, to ​inspire creativity, and to drive innovation. That’s why we’re ​dedicated to providing equal access to art, literacy and tech education for ​all, regardless of background, age, or ability.


Meet the President

Sarah Henderson

Sarah Henderson is an accomplished leader and seasoned marketing professional with over a decade of experience in driving strategic initiatives and fostering community engagement at the Sarah Robinson Group NFP, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved communities. As the Executive Director, she has played a pivotal role in transforming the organization through a comprehensive array of innovative programs that focus on education, mentorship, and personal development. Under her guidance, the organization has successfully launched initiatives that not only provide essential resources but also inspire confidence and self-efficacy in individuals facing adversity.

Sarah’s expertise extends to building impactful partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community leaders, expanding the organization’s reach and enhancing its overall effectiveness. She is adept at leveraging digital marketing strategies to elevate the organization’s visibility, utilizing social media campaigns, content marketing, and public relations strategies to engage stakeholders and cultivate a vibrant community around the cause. Her ability to analyze market trends and adapt messaging has significantly increased community participation and support for the organization’s mission.

An advocate for social justice, Sarah’s collaborative approach fosters a culture of inclusivity within her team and encourages meaningful dialogue with the communities served. She is dedicated to continuous improvement, always seeking to expand her knowledge and apply best practices in nonprofit management and marketing. Her unwavering commitment to empowering youth and creating sustainable change not only inspires her team but also resonates with donors and partners who share her vision for a brighter future. With a passion for making a difference, Sarah Henderson exemplifies the essence of leadership in nonprofit work, driving impactful initiatives that enable community members to reach their full potential.


What is the importance of addressing Mental Health in our School District?

Nationally and globally, educators are experiencing heightened stress due to increasing mental health needs in classrooms, the pressures of standardized testing, and systemic challenges post-pandemic. Research indicates that:

78%

of teachers report high levels of stress, with 60% considering leaving the profession due to burnout
(American Federation of Teachers, 2022).

Impact

Chronic stress and secondary trauma impact teachers’ ability to respond effectively to students, leading to decreased engagement and increased behavioral challenges
(National Child Traumatic Stress Network).

Schools

that implement trauma-informed training report a 30% reduction in student behavioral referrals and a 25% improvement in teacher retention
(Trauma Learning Policy Initiative, 2023).


Our Approach

Holistic Approach to Underlying Factors Impacting District Performance

A Trauma-Informed Approach to Supporting Educators

Schools that prioritize financial literacy, physical wellness, and trauma-informed care create environments where teachers and administrators feel supported and empowered. By addressing staff well-being holistically, schools build resilient teams that can adapt to shifting political climates and community needs while maintaining high-quality education for students.

The Impact of Chronic Stress on Educators

Persistent financial and workplace stress can dysregulate the nervous system, making it harder for teachers and administrators to communicate effectively, regulate emotions, and maintain a structured learning environment. Chronic stress impairs decision-making, patience, and responsiveness, which are critical for fostering a supportive classroom culture.

Physical Wellness as a Tool for Stress Regulation

Engaging in physical wellness practices helps counteract the chronic activation of the stress response system. Movement, exercise, and mindfulness practices support emotional regulation, improve energy levels, and enhance resilience, allowing educators to navigate challenges with greater clarity and stability.

Financial Stability as a Foundation for Well-Being

Financial wellness is essential for meeting basic human needs such as housing, food, healthcare, and clothing. When educators experience financial strain, their stress response system is activated, leading to burnout, decreased focus, and difficulty managing classroom responsibilities like lesson planning, grading, and student engagement.


Goals

Enhance Staff Mental Health Awareness

Improve understanding of mental health issues among educators and staff in School District 227, enabling them to better support students and themselves.

Equip Staff with Mental Health Resources

Provide educators with the necessary tools, strategies, and resources to address mental health challenges effectively within their classrooms and school communities.

Promote a Culture of Well-Being


Foster a supportive school environment that prioritizes mental health, encouraging open dialogue and reducing stigma around these issues.

Implement Ongoing Professional Development

Establish continuous learning opportunities for staff to stay informed about mental health topics and best practices in supporting students’ emotional and psychological well-being.


Objectives

Conduct Mental Health Training Workshops

Implement a series of professional development workshops focused on mental health awareness, coping strategies, and intervention techniques, targeting all educators and staff by the end of the academic year.

Develop Comprehensive Resource Materials

Create and distribute easy-to-understand materials and toolkits addressing mental health topics and best practices for staff, ensuring resources are accessible to at least 100 educators.

Establish Partnerships with Mental Health Professionals

Collaborate with local mental health organizations to provide expert-led training sessions and support, fostering connections and resources for staff within the first six months.

Evaluate Program Effectiveness

Utilize pre- and post-training surveys to assess changes in staff knowledge and confidence regarding mental health issues, aiming for an 80% satisfaction rate and measurable improvement in understanding.

Create Ongoing Support Networks for Staff

Develop a system for regular check-ins, peer support groups, and refresher training sessions to ensure staff feel supported and continuously engaged with mental health practices.



Our Format

Core Training
Staff-wide foundational training on trauma-informed care to enhance stress management

Leadership Coaching & Advanced Modules
Customized consultation groups for leadership teams based on organizational needs


Tier Selection

Tier 1: Mental Wellness
Tier 2: Mental Wellness + Physical Fitness
Tier 3: Mental Wellness + Physical Fitness + Financial Literacy

Class Schedule:

Weekly Classes: Regular sessions for continuous engagement and learning, ideal for participants needing consistent support and practice.

Bi-weekly Classes: Flexible option that balances frequency and retention, allowing participants to absorb material while still providing regular interaction.

Monthly Classes: Less frequent sessions suitable for in-depth exploration of topics, allowing participants to apply learning and prepare for each class effectively.

Schedule options can be customized based on participant needs and preferences to ensure maximum benefit.


FAQs

What if the topic isn’t presented?

No problem,topics are customized based on assessment and themes that come up in the consultations.

Can Teachers do consultation groups?

Of course, groups will be tailored to all roles. All consultations are interactive and incorporate proactical strategies to address needs.

What can I expect in consultation groups?

You can expect a safe, collaborative atmosphere where you and your colleagues are coached and supported in implementing trauma informed care through interactive activities.

Can the groups have different topics?

Yes, if there are school or team specific themes that arise, the module will prioritize present concerns and challenges.