Papillion-La Vista Schools Launches Innovative Mental Health Program

Papillion La Vista Schools in Omaha, Nebraska, has implemented a new mental health curriculum in its middle schools, aiming to enhance students’ emotional well-being through daily lessons. The program, known as Wayfinder, provides students with essential skills for self-care and peer support, integrating these lessons into homeroom classes.

The curriculum includes a variety of activities, from creative projects like hallway hopscotch to open discussions about challenging emotions. Seventh grader Reece Mahan, a student at Liberty Middle School, shared that the program encourages students to talk about their feelings and prepares them for the challenges of the day. “Most of the time, we’re talking about our emotions and how we’ll be better for the day to come,” Mahan explained.

Teachers are focused on practical applications of the lessons. Lindsay Wilson, a teacher at Liberty Middle School, described a recent lesson that centered on “sparking joy.” She noted, “Today’s lesson was about what brings each of us joy and how they’re different, and then how maybe we can use those things when we’re feeling down or need a pick-me-up or had a hard test.” In a show of solidarity, Mahan’s class created posters to uplift their peers, with messages like “everyone is enough” and “showing up makes the school better.”

The introduction of Wayfinder comes in response to a documented increase in youth mental health issues, notably since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stephanie Hoesing, the district’s mental health liaison, highlighted concerning statistics regarding mental health trends. “There has been an increase in depression and anxiety and also an increase in suicide rates amongst ten to fourteen year olds,” Hoesing stated.

Mahan noted that the program has already fostered a supportive environment among students. “If anyone is ever in trouble and they need help, anyone in the school would be able to help them,” he said. This peer support is a key goal of the Wayfinder initiative, which emphasizes community and connection.

Looking ahead, the district plans to expand the Wayfinder program to additional schools and grade levels, aiming to reach even more students in need of mental health support. For those requiring immediate assistance, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, providing vital resources for individuals in distress.

The proactive approach of Papillion La Vista Schools demonstrates a commitment to addressing mental health among the youth, equipping them with the tools necessary for emotional resilience and peer support.