Students Flourish with Unity

By Emily Jones | Published on  

Every year, on the first day of school, I engage in a special icebreaker activity with my students. I teach at Lincoln High School, a diverse and historic institution in Lincoln, Nebraska. Our mascot, the Links, symbolizes tradition, excellence, unity, and diversity. We even have a statue of four links connected like a chain, representing the core values we uphold.

During this icebreaker, I give each of my ninth-grade students a slip of paper and ask them to write something about themselves—a snippet that describes their identity, a passion, or a hope. As they complete their sentences, I go around the room, stapling each slip together to create a chain. This chain serves not only as a decoration in our classroom but also as a constant reminder that we are all connected—we are all links.

However, amidst the pursuit of connection, I often wondered about the challenges we face as teachers. We strive to provide support to our students academically, socially, and emotionally, but there are circumstances beyond our control that impact their lives. Some of my students go home to loving families, engaging in conversations about literature and scientific concepts. But there are also students who go to homeless shelters, group homes, or even sleep in cars. They carry with them the weight of trauma, and as teachers, we carry it home with us too.

Teaching goes beyond grading papers and planning lessons. It involves caring relationships with our students, enabling them to communicate, collaborate, and problem-solve in a world that demands such skills. We cannot rely solely on lectures and silent rows; we must forge strong connections with our students to help them navigate a world that thrives on interconnectedness.

I vividly recall a turning point in my teaching career when I had a student named David. In my second year of teaching, I believed I was doing a commendable job. But as David walked down the hall on the last day of school, it hit me—I didn’t even know what his voice sounded like. I realized that I needed to make a change.

So, I transformed my teaching approach, incorporating ample opportunities for my students to express themselves and engage in meaningful discussions. Through these conversations, I not only learned about their voices but also their pain. When David returned to my class the following year, I discovered that his father had been deported, causing him immense emotional distress. I empathized with his pain and realized that I needed support to guide him through a situation I could barely comprehend myself.

The concept of “secondary trauma” and “compassion fatigue” started to touch with me. We, as teachers, continuously serve a substantial number of students each day, and it inevitably takes an emotional toll on us. After a while, our emotional piggy banks become depleted, burdened by the heaviness of absorbing our students’ traumas. Sadly, this struggle seems to transcend grade levels, affecting teachers across the board.

To address this issue, I firmly believe that convenient and affordable access to mental wellness supports should be a priority for everyone involved in education—students, teachers, administrators, and support staff alike. We need trained professionals who can navigate the unique needs of the entire school community, recognizing that our work is challenging and emotionally demanding.

Fortunately, some schools are taking steps to fill these gaps. For instance, Schoo Middle School in Lincoln has implemented “Wellness Wednesdays,” inviting community yoga teachers, organizing walks during lunch breaks, and hosting social events to foster a sense of togetherness. Similarly, Zachary Elementary School in Louisiana hosts “Midweek Meetups,” where teachers gather to share lunch and discuss their successes and struggles openly. These schools are creating spaces for essential conversations that truly matter.

On a personal level, my colleague Jen Highstreet dedicates five minutes each day to write encouraging notes to fellow teachers, acknowledging their hard work and compassionate nature. She understands that these brief moments can have a significant and positive ripple effect throughout our school community.

As I reflect upon my teaching journey, I realize that the chain hanging in my classroom represents more than just decoration. It symbolizes the connection we foster over the four years that students grace our halls. Seniors return to my classroom, Room 340, and effortlessly spot their links, recalling what they wrote on them. They feel supported, connected, and filled with hope. And don’t we all need someone to reach out, ensuring that we are okay? We all need a helping hand, someone to hold the stapler when we falter.

Together, as educators and students, let’s prioritize building connections, fostering empathy, and supporting one another. By doing so, we create a stronger educational foundation that uplifts and enables everyone involved.

In the realm of education, our responsibility extends far beyond imparting knowledge. As teachers, we strive to create a safe and caring environment for our students, supporting them not only academically but also emotionally. The importance of addressing trauma and promoting emotional well-being in schools cannot be overstated.

Every day, we encounter students who carry heavy burdens. Some return home to stable and loving families, engaging in improving conversations and enjoying a nourishing environment. However, there are also students who face homelessness, reside in group homes, or find themselves sleeping in cars. These young individuals bring with them the weight of traumatic experiences, and it becomes our duty to provide solace and support.

Throughout my career, I have witnessed the profound impact that traumatic events can have on students. Sadly, I have experienced the heartbreaking loss of two students to suicide, as well as the passing of a dedicated teacher who wholeheartedly cared for his students. I have encountered countless students caught in the cycle of homelessness and witnessed young lives entering and exiting the justice system. These events highlight the urgent need for comprehensive support systems within our educational institutions.

Traditionally, when faced with traumatic situations, the protocol has been to offer a sympathetic ear and say, “If you need someone to talk to, then…” However, it has become evident that such measures are not enough. Our students require a more proactive approach to address their emotional needs effectively. We must acknowledge the immense challenges we face as educators and actively seek out solutions to support both our students and ourselves.

Research conducted by the Buffett Institute at the University of Nebraska sheds light on the prevalence of depressive symptoms among teachers. Astonishingly, 86 percent of educators across early childhood settings reported experiencing some form of depressive symptoms within the previous week. Approximately one in ten teachers even exhibited clinically significant depressive symptoms. These alarming statistics underline the universal struggle faced by educators at all grade levels.

To create a conducive environment for student well-being, it is paramount that every school incorporates social and emotional support staff. These trained professionals possess the expertise to navigate the intricate emotional landscape of the school community, catering to the needs of students and teachers alike. It is imperative that we bridge the gaps in mental wellness services, ensuring that they are easily accessible and affordable for everyone.

While some schools have been fortunate enough to establish robust support systems, many others, particularly smaller districts, struggle to bear the financial burden alone. Collaboration and external assistance are essential in providing necessary resources for comprehensive mental wellness support.

Recognizing the challenges faced by educators, some schools have implemented innovative initiatives. For instance, Schoo Middle School in Lincoln has introduced “Wellness Wednesdays,” inviting community yoga teachers, organizing neighborhood walks during lunch breaks, and arranging social events. These endeavors aim to foster a sense of community and ease the emotional burden that teachers bear.

Similarly, Zachary Elementary School in Louisiana holds regular “Midweek Meetups,” where teachers come together during lunchtime to share a meal and engage in open conversations about their experiences. These spaces offer a supportive platform for educators to discuss both their successes and the emotional weight they carry.

Moreover, personal gestures can also make a significant difference. My friend and colleague, Jen Highstreet, dedicates just five minutes each day to write encouraging notes to fellow teachers. These simple acts of kindness acknowledge their hard work and the compassion they extend to others. It is incredible to witness how these few minutes of support can have a far-reaching and invaluable ripple effect throughout the school community.

Ultimately, the chain that adorns my classroom serves as a powerful symbol. It represents the connections we forge with our students over the course of their four-year journey through high school. Even after graduation, seniors return to my classroom, room 340, and effortlessly locate their individual links. They recall what they wrote on them, feeling a sense of belonging and support that persists beyond their time within our walls. It is this sense of connection, of having someone who cares and checks in, that is crucial for us all. Sometimes, we all need a little help holding the stapler.

Let us prioritize the emotional well-being of our students and educators alike. By fostering supportive and empathetic environments within our schools, we can provide the foundation our students need to thrive academically, emotionally, and in life.

As educators, we hold a significant responsibility in shaping the minds and hearts of our students. Beyond imparting knowledge, we play a vital role in fostering unity and hugging diversity within our classrooms and schools.

In my experience at Lincoln High School, one of the oldest and most diverse institutions in Nebraska, I have come to appreciate the importance of creating an inclusive environment. Our school proudly bears the mascot of the Links—a symbol of connection and interdependence. A statue of four links, representing tradition, excellence, unity, and diversity, stands at the entrance of our building, reminding us of the values we hold dear.

On the first day of school, I introduce my ninth-grade students to the profound meaning behind these links. Each student is given a slip of paper and asked to write something about themselves—a reflection of their identity, a passion, or a hope. With a stapler in hand, I weave these slips together, forming a chain that adorns our classroom.

This chain serves not only as a decoration but as a powerful reminder that we are all interconnected, that we are all links. It symbolizes the unity we strive for and the strength we find in our diversity. It teaches our students the value of hugging one another’s unique perspectives and experiences.

However, fostering unity and diversity goes beyond symbolism. It requires intentional efforts and actions on the part of teachers. We must create spaces where students feel safe to express themselves, where their voices are heard and valued. Lectures and silent rows are no longer sufficient. Instead, we must encourage communication, collaboration, and problem-solving among our students.

In my early teaching years, I vividly recall a moment that shifted my approach. I had a student named David, and as he walked away on the last day of school, it struck me that I didn’t even know the sound of his voice. I realized that I needed to change, to truly connect with my students on a deeper level.

From that point forward, I transformed my teaching methods. I introduced ample opportunities for my students to engage in meaningful conversations with me and with one another. Through these dialogues, I not only got to know their voices but also their stories, their pain, and their aspirations. It was through these connections that I could truly support them.

Teaching is not just about the academic subjects we teach; it is about building relationships that enable our students. We need to be present for them, especially when they face difficult circumstances. Many of our students carry heavy burdens—experiencing homelessness, coping with trauma, or navigating challenging family situations. As teachers, we cannot control the circumstances they face outside the classroom, but we can provide the support and care they need within our educational environment.

Furthermore, the evolving landscape of the workforce demands skills beyond mere content knowledge. We must prepare our students to communicate, collaborate, and solve problems effectively. This necessitates shifting our teacher-student relationships to ones that go beyond the traditional roles of content giver and knowledge receiver. We must become facilitators, mentors, and advocates, guiding our students toward success in an interconnected world.

By hugging diversity and fostering unity, we equip our students with the tools they need to thrive in a global society. They learn to appreciate different perspectives, respect one another’s backgrounds, and work together toward common goals. In doing so, we not only shape their educational experience but also contribute to building a more inclusive and harmonious society.

As teachers, we have the power to make a lasting impact on the lives of our students. Let us seize this opportunity and create classrooms that celebrate unity and diversity. By weaving the threads of connection, empathy, and understanding, we enable our students to become compassionate leaders and catalysts for positive change.

In the realm of education, our role as teachers goes beyond academics. We are entrusted with the well-being of our students, which encompasses their mental and emotional health. It is imperative that we prioritize mental wellness and establish robust support systems within our educational institutions.

Throughout my teaching journey, I have witnessed the immense impact that mental health has on students and educators alike. Every day, we encounter young individuals who carry burdens beyond the classroom walls. Some of our students face difficult circumstances, such as homelessness, family challenges, or traumatic experiences. These experiences profoundly affect their emotional well-being and hinder their ability to thrive academically.

As teachers, we carry the weight of our students’ struggles. We absorb their traumas, empathize with their pain, and strive to create a safe and caring environment for them. However, this responsibility takes a toll on our own mental health. The emotional piggy bank within us is continuously drawn upon, depleting our reserves over time. It is not uncommon for educators to experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and compassion fatigue due to the emotional demands of the profession.

To address these challenges, we must recognize the urgent need for comprehensive mental wellness support in education. It is essential that students, teachers, administrators, and support staff have convenient and affordable access to the resources they require. Mental health professionals who understand the unique needs of the educational setting are indispensable in navigating the complexities of our school communities.

While some fortunate schools have been able to provide such support, many districts, particularly smaller ones, struggle to bear the financial burden alone. Collaboration and external assistance are crucial in ensuring that every educational institution can offer adequate mental wellness services. It is a collective responsibility to advocate for the necessary resources and funding to prioritize mental health in education.

Beyond the availability of mental health professionals, we must grow a culture of openness and support within our schools. Educators and administrators should intentionally check in with those who are closest to the trauma—students and fellow colleagues. It is not enough to offer a sympathetic ear; we must actively seek out those who need support and provide the necessary resources and guidance.

Fortunately, some schools have already taken steps to bridge these gaps. For instance, Wellness Wednesdays have been implemented in Schoo Middle School, inviting yoga teachers from the community, organizing walks during lunch breaks, and hosting social events. These initiatives create spaces for rejuvenation, self-care, and fostering connections within the school community.

Similarly, Zachary Elementary School has hugged Midweek Meetups, where teachers come together to share lunch and engage in conversations about both successes and burdens. These moments of support and collaboration foster a sense of belonging and provide an outlet for the emotional weight that educators carry.

Even small gestures can make a significant impact. A colleague of mine, Jen Highstreet, takes just five minutes out of her day to write encouraging notes to fellow teachers. These simple acts of recognition and appreciation can have a powerful ripple effect, creating a culture of support and well-being within the school.

The statistics speak volumes about the urgent need for mental wellness support. Research conducted by the Buffett Institute at the University of Nebraska reveals that a staggering 86 percent of teachers across early childhood settings experience depressive symptoms within a week. Approximately one in ten teachers exhibit clinically significant depressive symptoms. These numbers highlight the universal struggle faced by educators at all levels.

It is time to prioritize mental wellness in education. By doing so, we create a healthier and more conducive environment for both students and educators. Let us advocate for the necessary resources, foster a culture of support, and ensure that mental health is not neglected in our educational institutions. Together, we can build a foundation that allows everyone to thrive academically, emotionally, and personally.

The journey of a teacher is a remarkable one, filled with challenges and rewards. As educators, we have the incredible opportunity to shape young minds and make a lasting impact on their lives. It is our duty to create an inclusive and supportive environment where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and personally.

Through fostering unity and hugging diversity, we teach our students the value of connection and understanding. We break down barriers, encourage empathy, and celebrate the unique perspectives and experiences that each individual brings to the table. By prioritizing mental wellness, we acknowledge the importance of addressing the emotional needs of our students and ourselves.

Creating robust support systems within our educational institutions is vital. We must ensure that students, teachers, administrators, and support staff have access to convenient and affordable mental wellness resources. This includes mental health professionals who can navigate the complexities of the school environment and provide guidance and support.

Beyond the provision of professional support, we must actively grow a culture of openness and care within our schools. Checking in with students and colleagues, fostering conversations that matter, and recognizing the efforts of others can create a sense of belonging and support. Small gestures of kindness and appreciation can have a profound impact on the well-being of our school community.

The statistics speak for themselves, highlighting the urgent need to address mental wellness in education. Let us advocate for the necessary resources and funding to ensure that mental health is not neglected. By prioritizing mental wellness, we lay the foundation for students to thrive academically and emotionally, equipping them with the skills and toughness they need to navigate the complexities of the world.

As we embark on this journey as educators, let us continue to hold ourselves accountable for fostering unity, celebrating diversity, and supporting the mental wellness of our students and ourselves. Together, we can create transformative educational experiences that enable our students and build a brighter future for all.