Students in Pembina Hills schools are set to benefit from improved mental health support programs, as discussed at a recent school trustees meeting on June 19. Vanessa Lewis, Program Manager for Promoting Activity, Wellness, and Success (PAWS), provided an insightful presentation on the program’s impact and upcoming initiatives.
“We are one of 37 mental health capacity-building programs within the province of Alberta,” Lewis shared, highlighting the significant role PAWS plays in the region.
With approximately $10,000 in funding, PAWS has purchased two new programs for every elementary school in the Pembina Hills School Division, set to launch this fall.
The first program, Kimochis, is a social-emotional learning initiative targeting the youngest students, from pre-kindergarten to grade 1. This program uses storybooks paired with stuffed character animals to teach children how to recognize and manage their emotions, as well as support others.
The second program, Little Spot, features a cast of characters representing different emotions. Through engaging books and activities, students in grades 2, 3, and 4 can help these characters navigate their feelings, which has been well-received by the students, according to Lewis.
In addition to these new programs, three communities—Swan Hills, Barrhead, and Fort Assiniboine—are supported by various PAWS services. Four schools within these communities, including Swan Hills School, Fort Assiniboine School, Barrhead Composite High School, and Barrhead Outreach School, benefit from PAWS resources and services.
“The intention is that it is a community program, not just a school project,” remarked Lewis, emphasizing the program’s broader community focus since its inception in Swan Hills in 2007.
The PAWS program, under Alberta Health Services’ Service Model of Care, is classified as a Tier 1 and 2 program. Its mandate includes promoting mental health and preventing issues through coping skills, conflict resolution, and social-emotional learning.
Although the program does not offer direct mental health counseling, it provides a wide range of supportive services. The current budget of $199,000 primarily covers staffing and benefits, with the remainder allocated for program events, professional development, and travel costs. An additional $7,000 was recently received to expand support.
Swan Hills students, from preschool to high school, receive age-appropriate universal programming on a weekly to monthly basis. Targeted programs address specific needs, such as a group of grade 2 students experiencing anxiety, with evidence-informed interventions.
PAWS staff utilize referrals to specialists, such as student-family advocates, school counselors, external psychologists, physicians, FCSS offices, the Food Bank, and children’s services. Regular student check-ins help staff build relationships, provide support, and determine if additional resources are needed.
Staff wellness services are also a key component, offering professional development, monthly wellness activities, and Mental Health First Aid training. The Kimochis and Little Spot programs equip staff with tools to support both themselves and their students.
Summer programming focuses on increasing physical activity, problem-solving skills, and self-esteem through various camps. PAWS specialists collaborate with FCSS and the town of Swan Hills to host evening information sessions and monthly lunch-and-learns, although attendance can be challenging.
Looking ahead, Lewis plans to enhance the program’s growth mindset component, ensuring its integration and focus in the coming year. It’s important to note that PAWS staff must have a teacher present when delivering materials and cannot provide counseling services.
Through these comprehensive initiatives, Pembina Hills schools are poised to significantly bolster their mental health support, fostering a healthier, more resilient student community.
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