Statistics show that 75 percent of mental health challenges emerge during adolescence and young adulthood, and 4 in 10 high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Support is imperative.
This was the opening statement at the Thursday morning session “Pioneering Powerful Practices: A Comprehensive Approach to Enhancing Impact of Mental Health Support” led by Jennifer Reed, senior director at the Jed Foundation; Tony Walker, senior vice president at the Jed Foundation; and Rupak Gandhi, superintendent of Fargo Public Schools in North Dakota.
Reed put it simply: “Mental health is a foundational component of how students learn. When students are mentally well, they are ready to learn.”
The Jed Foundation’s District Mental Health Initiative provides a structured, two-year plan to help schools build and strengthen their mental health systems. The program includes expert guidance, research-based strategies and a collaborative framework to improve student well-being.
Gandhi shared how his district’s partnership with JED has enhanced mental health services. By identifying clear goals and measuring key indicators, Fargo School District has refined its strategies and expanded access to care.
“Success is school districts' understanding that this can be implemented into the work you are already doing,” Gandhi noted. He stressed that the initiative does not require schools to start from scratch but rather strengthens and aligns existing efforts.
Walker urged school leaders to assess their current approach by asking attendees these key questions:
- Is mental health explicitly integrated into district plans?
- Do cross-functional teams regularly evaluate progress and adjust strategies as needed?
- Are school spaces, schedules and policies designed to reinforce a culture of well-being?
- How are data and key indicators used to measure success and refine strategies?
Speakers encouraging school leaders to examine how school spaces, schedules and policies can reinforce a culture of well-being.
“As a district leader, you are responsible for creating the conditions where students can thrive,” Reed said, “This isn’t just about attending school—it’s about building a strong school culture and defining the experience your school provides.”
(Amiela Arcellana is a reporter with Conference Daily Online and AASA’s marketing coordinator.)
