Sachem High School East recently wrapped up a monthlong Mental Health Awareness initiative dedicated to fostering kindness, mindfulness and meaningful connections within the school community. Through creative activities and student-led efforts, the initiative emphasized the importance of emotional well-being and healthy habits.
Led by school psychologists Dr. Fern DaSilva and Mrs. Cheryl Ryan, speech language pathologist and Renaissance Program Coordinator Doreen Schaefer, English teacher Gina Killoran and the Renaissance Student Leadership Program, the initiative brought mental wellness to the forefront of student life. Special thanks go to media specialist Jacque Wrightson for her support with promotional materials, and to Renaissance President Sean Hogan and Vice President Ava Rogers for their leadership throughout the month.
At the heart of the initiative was the Mental Health Booth, offering rotating activities such as breathing exercises, affirmation cards, coloring sheets and a Worry Jar for letting go of anxiety. Surrounding posters shared mental health strategies and encouraging messages. Students could also sign up weekly for small-group activities to foster connection and support.
Each morning, Renaissance students shared announcements focused on stress-relief techniques and positive affirmations. They also introduced “Wear Green for Mental Health Fridays,” designed supportive posters and decorated two cafeteria hallway poles with green hearts. Pens were attached so students could write positive reflections or messages about mental health. Green awareness ribbons were also distributed to both staff and students.
The initiative followed weekly themes:
* Week One: Kickoff to Kindness – Students and staff engaged with Kindness Challenge Cards and contributed to a Compliment Wall, encouraging self-compassion and peer recognition.
* Week Two: Mindful Moments – Activities included mindful breathing, mindful eating, a Stress Management Mantra Wall, affirmation cards and use of the Worry Jar.
* Week Three: Connection – Students participated in connection-building exercises and created a collaborative poster project, supported by Mr. Bildzukewicz, promoting empathy and inclusion.
* Week Four: Healthy Habits – The month concluded with a focus on integrating all prior themes into lasting habits, ending with a reflective Mindful Walk around the school grounds.
Sachem East’s initiative not only raised awareness of mental health but also empowered students to take meaningful steps toward building a more mindful and compassionate school culture.
Date Added: 6/3/2025