Supporting Mental Health Awareness

Mental Health Awareness Month is observed each May and the 2026 theme in Virginia is “More Good Days, Together,” to support mental health through community connection, reducing stigma and identifying steps to foster better mental well-being.

Mental wellness impacts every aspect of daily life, including physical health, relationships, communication, decision-making and stress management. For both students and staff, social and emotional skills help create stronger school communities and healthier learning and work environments. Across Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS), there is an intentional focus on creating safe, caring and inclusive spaces where students and staff feel connected, valued and supported.

Open conversations, trusted relationships and access to support are essential components of a school environment that supports mental health as students and staff should never have to manage it alone. Suicide prevention is also an essential part of this work because recognizing early signs, connection and early intervention can save lives. One caring adult, one colleague or one conversation can make a significant difference.

Emotional health and learning are deeply connected. When students or staff are experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety or trauma, it can impact their focus, emotional regulation, communication and problem-solving skills. Research tells us that students learn best when they feel safe, connected and supported.

Positive relationships between students and staff help create environments where people feel comfortable asking for help, taking academic risks and engaging in meaningful learning. Across ACPS, we intentionally embed social-emotional learning practices into academics because we know that emotional wellness supports, raises achievement and a sense of belonging. This work aligns closely with the ACPS 2030 Strategic Plan's commitment to supporting the whole child while creating safe, caring and inclusive school communities.

No one should feel like they have to navigate mental health concerns alone. In ACPS, students, families and staff can connect with their School Support Teams (SST), which include counselors, psychologists, social workers and nurses, for any mental health concerns. 

In addition, ACPS has partnered with Hazel Health to provide virtual therapy services for students. The school division also collaborates with the City of Alexandria Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS), with assigned therapists at several division schools to provide additional mental health support for our students. 

When it comes to mental health, it is important that we support one another. For instance, at George Washington Middle School, Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Teacher Jennifer Tutuska empowered students to lead a staff development afternoon on instructional and social emotional topics important to them. Several students focused on the importance of mindfulness for mental wellness, stress management and community circles. Students shared mindfulness strategies and reflected on how these practices positively impacted their emotional well-being, focus and school experience. Creating this opportunity for connection, served to elevate student leadership and provide authentic student voice while also supporting staff wellness. It is initiatives like this that will help to ensure we have “More Good Days, Together.”