Manhasset superintendent’s conference focuses on mental wellness

The Island Now
Superintendent’s Conference Day is a time for Manhasset teachers to collaborate on a variety of topics. (Photo courtesy of Manhasset Public Schools)

Keeping with the board of education’s priority of strengthening social and emotional systems and supports, the Manhasset School District hosted a Superintendent’s Conference Day to provide faculty and support staff with training to improve the mental wellness of all students.

All staff from grades 7 through 12 and select elementary staff, including mental health support team members, participated in a presentation held in the Manhasset Secondary School auditorium on Nov. 6, while school was closed to students. Educators were familiarized with the district’s mental wellness approach, including how to engage, listen and support students who may be exhibiting signs of mental distress. The presentation also touched on developing a plan for addressing the problem that enlists counselors, utilizes existing interventions, establishes levels of confidentially and garners student input.

Manhasset Superintendent of Schools Vincent Butera addresses a group of educators during the conference day on Nov. 6. (Photo courtesy of Manhasset Public Schools)

Following the presentation, participants convened in classrooms to work in breakout groups, discussing and role-playing specific scenarios involving students who exhibit anguish, sorrow or harmful tendencies in a school setting.

“This was a great opportunity to bring our staff together to practice strategies in a collaborative setting and share ideas to help our students who are affected in various ways,” said superintendent Vincent Butera.

“Identifying concerning thoughts, feelings and behaviors, then starting the conversation and following through with the appropriate supports, are crucial to getting students the help they need. The tools learned today are invaluable to us all and will go a long way toward ensuring and improving the social-emotional health of our children.”

The conference was held in conjunction with the Nassau County Department of Human Services.

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