Wellbeing & Flourishing Forever

The Mental Health in Schools Pilot Project was initiated at Aurora Academic Charter Schools as a catalyst project two and a half years ago! Aurora is one of 79 education systems across Alberta that have had the privilege of participating in this locally-developed initiative to improve student mental health and well-being. We are one of the only systems that embarked on a unique endeavor of partnering with a local community league - Sherbrooke Community League - to create a 'HUB' model of support. By establishing a relationship with the surrounding community league of the Primary Campus, community members had the opportunity to join the monthly mental health and well-being PD sessions offered by Education Psychologist, Aaron Block, along with more informal well-being supports offered by Jesse Henton, Student and Community Advocate.

This partnership also promoted an increased awareness of mental health and well-being among all stakeholders, including school leadership, staff, students, families and community members. A variety of print, online and in-person supports and resources were explored throughout the pilot project through direct instruction in the classroom, professional learning for staff on PD Days, online PD for parents and caregivers, student engagement activities and community-based activities.

As this pilot is drawing to a close at the end of June, the efforts of all stakeholders and the knowledge gained serve as a foundation for continuing this excellent work at all campuses of Aurora Academic Charter Schools as we begin planning for the upcoming school year.

The Members of the Pilot Project, including:

- Mary Healy, Director of Student Learning Services

- Dr. Paul Wozny, Research and Grant Manager

- Aaron Block, Registered Education Psychologist

- Lana Nogue, Education Consultant

- Catherine Jevic, President of Sherbrooke Community League

- Wen Liang, Secretary-Treasurer

- Ian Gray, Superintendent

Thank the staff, students, parents and caregivers, and community members for their support and participation!

As the weather becomes warmer and we can enjoy the outdoors a little more, check out 4 weeks of activities to engage in with your family!

Thank you to all parents / caregivers who have joined Aaron Block during monthly online parent sessions intended to provide information about supporting our children and teens through a safe, informative and interactive hour of learning!

Aaron Block, Registered Psychologist, will continue to facilitate online evening sessions for parents, family members and the community the second Thursday of each month throughout the school year. Join Aaron from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. to gain some excellent information on a timely topic each month.

June 12: Creating opportunities for children to build their resilience

LINK for each of the sessions: https://meet.google.com/div-eubj-aiw

Or dial: ‪(CA) +1 587-786-8157‬ PIN: ‪249 388 740‬#

Also note that Aaron provides individual counseling support outside of school hours on Thursday evenings and on Saturday. If you are interested in accessing this support, please contact Mary Healy, Director of Student Learning Services, at mhealy@auroraschool.ca

Check out the Module:

- Future Goals for Parents/Guardians

Use the following credentials:

Website: https://login.base.education

Username: flourishing

Email: WFF@auroraschool.ca