Colonial School district outlines staff wellness 'champions' program, cites early engagement gains

The Colonial School District presented an employee wellness champions framework intended to reduce stigma around mental health and give staff tools to support colleagues and themselves.

During a presentation and board Q&A, a district staff presenter urged community members "you're not alone" and said the champions model will guide how the district supports employee wellness. The presenter said the initiative builds on the district's social-emotional learning work and that staff "recognize that all of these components need to be addressed." (Speaker 1)

The presenter told the board the district began implementation this school year and noted early signs of engagement: "we've had the most engagement thus far this month" on Schoology after posting mental health resources and daily quotes, and said the group plans to collect feedback at year end to guide improvements. (Speaker 1)

Board members asked how the exercise alters staff perspective about student experiences and how staff refill their own capacity after providing support. One board member said the exercise was "eye opening," and another praised the "invisible backpack" concept for changing perspective. Doctor Dorsey called the presentation "awesome" and asked whether the district is tracking data on staff wellness and noted increased Schoology engagement so far. (Speakers 3,4,6)

The district described the champions as building on last year’s staff survey results — which showed notable work-related stress — and characterized this rollout as an initial step, with more formal feedback and metrics expected after the school year. No formal board action was taken at this item; board members expressed support and asked for continued measurement of outcomes.

The board is expected to receive follow-up information next year on survey results and recommendations for improving the work group.