Mentally Healthy Classroom

Funded Sep 29, 2024

I have used the resources from the Mentally Healthy Classroom project with my 9th and 12th graders as well as my advisory which we call Crew. Students now routinely ask for noise cancelling headphones and fidgets to help them focus in class and have easy access to pads and snacks when needed.

The biggest hit by far was the weighted green stuffed elephant. My advisory decided to name him Gerald and he was so popular that I invested in two other weighted stuffies named Stevie and Rosie. The students carry them around to class, hug them when having a bad day, and treat them with care. When Gerald got a small hole, one of the students brought him to sewing class to get him patched up. He is a permanent friend in our classroom community.

Students are reaching the end of the semester and their stress is increasing. Having games like Uno and Connect Four for bonding time, and complex coloring books with acrylic pens for more solo reflection is incredibly beneficial and sincerely appreciated!”

With gratitude,

Ms. Edwards