Papillion La Vista Schools in Omaha, Nebraska, has implemented a comprehensive mental health curriculum for its middle school students. The program, named Wayfinder, introduces daily lessons focused on emotional well-being, aiming to equip students with essential skills for self-care and peer support.
The Wayfinder program integrates various activities into homeroom classes, making emotional education both engaging and practical. Lessons include creative projects, such as hallway hopscotch, alongside discussions on navigating difficult emotions. Seventh grader Reece Mahan from Liberty Middle School noted that students frequently engage in conversations about their feelings, emphasizing how these discussions prepare them for the challenges of the day.
Instructors like Lindsay Wilson highlight the program’s focus on practical applications. “Today’s lesson was about sparking joy. We explored what brings each of us joy and how these different sources can help us when feeling down,” Wilson explained. Mahan’s class has even created posters advocating positivity and support among peers. “My poster was about how everyone is enough and how just showing up makes the school better,” he said.
The initiative comes in response to a concerning rise in youth mental health issues, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Stephanie Hoesing, the district’s mental health liaison, there has been a notable increase in depression, anxiety, and suicide rates among ten to fourteen-year-olds. “When you look at the statistics around mental health since COVID, it’s clear we need to address these rising concerns,” Hoesing stated.
Since the introduction of the Wayfinder program, students like Mahan have reported a significant shift in their school environment. “If anyone is ever in trouble and they need help, anyone in the school would be able to assist them,” he remarked, reflecting a growing sense of community and support among students.
Looking ahead, Papillion La Vista Schools plans to expand the Wayfinder program to more schools and additional grade levels, enhancing its reach and impact. For those in need of immediate support, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, providing critical assistance to individuals facing mental health challenges.
This innovative approach marks a significant step forward in addressing the mental health crisis among young people, fostering a culture of empathy and resilience within the school community.
