In Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, the local public schools are taking a proactive approach to student well-being by partnering with families and mental health professionals. This initiative aims to build resilience in students, extending support beyond the classroom. The recent episode of the ‘BA Core Values’ podcast featured discussions with Kelsee McCutchen, Clinical Director at Grand Lake Mental Health, and Twyla McCarty, counselor at Broken Arrow Options Academy, highlighting the importance of these partnerships.

Community and Family Engagement

Kelsee McCutchen, who oversees outpatient services in Tulsa County for Grand Lake Mental Health, emphasized the role of families in supporting student mental health. Her work involves embedding mental health staff in schools, particularly focusing on early childhood centers. McCutchen noted that changes in young children’s behavior often stem from family dynamics, necessitating a family-centered approach to therapy.

McCarty, a counselor at the Options Academy, shared insights into the academy’s unique role in the district. The academy serves as a credit recovery program for high school students facing various challenges, including social and emotional needs. McCarty highlighted the academy’s supportive environment, where staff are dedicated to meeting students where they are and helping them find motivation and success.

Building Resilience

The podcast discussion also touched on the importance of allowing students to experience and navigate struggles. Both McCutchen and McCarty agreed that resilience is built through facing challenges and learning to overcome them. They stressed the value of teaching students to recognize and manage their struggles, equipping them with the tools to become capable adults.

Broken Arrow Public Schools’ commitment to fostering resilience through community and family involvement reflects a broader understanding of education’s role in developing well-rounded individuals. By integrating mental health support and emphasizing family engagement, the district aims to create a nurturing environment where students can thrive.

Original reporting: Broken Arrow Public Schools — read the source article.