May marked Mental Health Awareness Month, and throughout the Oneonta City School District, students, staff, and families were invited to reflect, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations around mental wellness. With the theme “Be Kind to Your Mind,” the month was filled with encouraging reminders and practical resources designed to support the whole child—thanks to the dedication of our incredible team of school social workers, counselors, psychologists, and student support staff.
We began the month by sharing Mental Health America’s “31 Tips to Boost Your Mental Health” calendar, which encouraged small, daily habits that prioritize mental wellness. A message on our East Street digital sign served as a gentle reminder each day: “Dear person reading this screen, the world is a better place with you in it. Be kind to your mind and keep climbing.” Our school community was also invited to wear green each Friday in May to help raise awareness and spark conversations about mental health across all buildings.
At the elementary level, Lori Leahy-Basso worked with classroom teachers to introduce a lesson called “Taking Care of Your Mental Health Garden.” Teachers led their students through thoughtful discussions about what helps a mental health garden grow—like friendship, rest, movement, and honesty—and what might cause it to wilt. Each student then chose one thing they could do to help their garden thrive and added it to a shared bulletin board in the form of a colorful flower. It was a simple but powerful way to plant seeds of self-awareness and emotional growth at an early age.
At the middle and high schools, the message of support came to life through a variety of creative and heartfelt initiatives. Service Club members painted a green mural with a positive quote on the shared campus wall, and students passed hopscotch paths drawn in green chalk, each square featuring an uplifting affirmation. Daily announcements promoted mental health awareness, and themed poster contests invited students to use art as a form of expression and advocacy. In the high school lobby, a resource table remained stocked throughout the month with mental health information and small wellness goodies. At the middle school, a social work intern hosted a similar table once a week, offering encouragement and conversation. On May 22, OHS welcomed several local community agencies who set up tables to connect students with services and support. The month wrapped up with a student-led bake sale on May 29, with proceeds benefiting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
To continue supporting mental wellness beyond the month of May, we’ve included a Mental Health Grocery List with brain-boosting foods and a comprehensive Resource List featuring hotlines, organizations, and support services. These tools are meant to be helpful for students, families, and staff alike. Click the links above to view and explore additional resources.
Mental Health Awareness Month may be over, but the commitment to supporting the mental and emotional wellness of our students remains strong. We are proud of the compassion, creativity, and collaboration shown by every member of our school community this month. Together, we are reminding one another that no one has to navigate their mental health alone—and that kindness, connection, and understanding can make all the difference.