Welcome Back! We are so glad you're here. Fall is just around the corner, and teachers and staff have been hard at work preparing for your students and the upcoming school year. We can't wait to see your children and get the 21-22 school year underway.

Check out our offerings below- from combating back-to-school anxiety to information on screen time, down time, and graduation requirements, this issue of the Mabank Counseling Connection is filled with helpful tips and information.

This year, we're excited to share that we've added streamlined guidance curriculum at the elementary and Intermediate levels. The ChangeMakers curriculum from Momentous Institute is a powerful, evidence-based guidance program that teaches the social emotional skills needed to navigate life and the challenges we face. Details in the link below.

While some feelings of normalcy have returned, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to exact a toll on not just the physical health, but the mental health of the nation. If you are concerned that you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health problem, it is important to act. Start the conversation. Seek help from a trusted adult. A parent, a teacher, a counselor. A list of area Mental Health resources and hotlines can be found on our district counseling website under Counseling and Human Resources. You are not alone.

In this very important work that we do, nothing is more crucial that the wellbeing and safety of our students and our staff. Take care of each other, and never be afraid to ask for help. Looking forward to a great 2021-2022 school year!

Thank you and welcome back,

Ashley Ward, MS, LPC

Coordinator of Counseling and Student Support

Mabank ISD

amward@mabankisd.net

What’s your biggest goal for next year?

What character strengths will help you achieve it?

Momentous Institute has been building and repairing social emotional health for nearly a century. Almost anywhere you look, the research confirms what we know to be true – that people with solid social emotional intelligence are happier, healthier and more successful.

Mabank ISD is proud to partner with Momentous Institute in bringing the ChangeMakers curriculum to our Elementary and Intermediate campuses. These powerful and impactful lessons are led by our counselors across all four campuses give students the social emotional tools they need to thrive in today's world. All lessons are built on safe relationships and move up through self-regulation, awareness of self and others, empowering students to be change makers themselves. Click on the picture below to read more:

What Is It?

Life happens in the context of relationships. Humans are wired for social connection, and it’s in that connection that we are able to express our best selves, contribute to our communities and achieve successful and satisfying lives.

Why Is It Important?

Learning about our role in the class community helps us to connect to one another and feel safe at school.