Shawnee Mission School District enhances mental health support with new programs and strategies

The Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD) is making significant strides in prioritizing mental health support for students and staff, as highlighted during the Board Meeting on January 13, 2025. The district's strategic plan emphasizes the importance of mental health, aiming to enhance student engagement and academic success through comprehensive support systems.

Key discussions centered around the ongoing efforts to clarify the roles of mental health professionals within schools. The strategic action team is focused on defining job descriptions for social workers, counselors, and psychologists to foster effective collaboration. Additionally, there is a push to explore the addition of counselors for pre-K through 6th grade, a move that could greatly enhance early mental health support.

Catherine Harder, a social worker at Shawnee Mission West, and senior Maya Williams shared insights on two impactful programs: "Sources of Strength" and "Reasons Why." These initiatives empower students to take leadership roles in promoting mental health awareness and combating stigma. Activities such as community forums and a color run have engaged students and fostered a supportive environment.

The meeting also highlighted the impressive statistics from the previous school year, where counselors and social workers logged over 45,000 guidance-related interactions, including nearly 12,000 focused on social-emotional support. This reflects a growing understanding of mental health needs and the effectiveness of tiered support systems in schools.

Looking ahead, the district is committed to continuing its partnership with Johnson County Mental Health to expand these initiatives. Board members expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts and the positive impact on student well-being, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and supportive school culture.

As SMSD moves forward, the focus remains on elevating student voices and ensuring that mental health resources are accessible to all, reinforcing the district's commitment to fostering a thriving educational environment.