Just because the 2024–2025 school year has come to a close doesn’t mean the work stops for our dedicated Yellowjackets.
Today, 26 OCSD team members gathered at the District Office to participate in Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training—a nationally recognized program designed to help adults identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in adolescents.
Led by certified district trainers Renee Stanley and Mary Stalder, the full-day session gave participants practical tools and strategies to support students facing mental health concerns. Ms. Stanley, a Health Teacher at Oneonta High School, and Mrs. Stalder, the OHS Library Media Specialist, guided staff through an evidence-based curriculum that covers topics such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, and more.
"Students today are facing more emotional challenges than ever before," said Ms. Stanley. "Our goal is to make sure every adult in the building feels confident recognizing when a student is struggling and knows how to offer support in a meaningful and appropriate way."
The training includes a five-step action plan that emphasizes listening non-judgmentally, assessing risk, encouraging self-care, and connecting students with appropriate resources.
Mrs. Stalder shared, “We are fostering a community of care where students know they’re not alone. Every staff member trained is another trusted adult a student can turn to.”
Assistant Superintendent Coleen Moore praised the continued efforts of staff, saying, “Mental health is foundational to student success. Providing this training helps us build a culture of awareness, compassion, and early intervention.”
To date, about 100 OCSD educators and staff members have completed YMHFA training. The district remains committed to expanding access to this important professional development opportunity in the upcoming school year.
For more information about Youth Mental Health First Aid, visit www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org.
