So long, sweet summer!

Whether you're busy wrapping up last minute vacations and trying to make the most of these last few days of summer, or are longing for cooler weather and routine, school days are almost here and a brand new school year is fast approaching.

Hopefully summer gave you and your family a chance to relax and recharge so you can start the school year off on the right foot. We want this year to be safe, happy, and healthy for everyone, so read on for tips on the importance of happiness, kicking worry to the curb, and how to build more joy and satisfaction into your everyday routine. Be sure to check out the link to our SEL Online Library as well for links to read-a-longs for books on any number of social emotional topics. For even more helps, take a look at our newsletter archives on our Counseling Webpage under "Newsletter Archive" in the left-hand column.

As always, if you are concerned that you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health issue, it is important to act. Start the conversation. Seek help from a trusted adult. A list of area Mental Health resources and hotlines can be found on our district counseling website under Counseling Resources. You are not alone.

Take care of you, take care of each other, and a very Happy School Year to you all!

Ashley Ward, MS, LPC, CCTP

Coordinator of Counseling and Student Support

Mabank ISD

amward@mabankisd.net

Did you know that August is World Happiness Month? Infusing your life with health-wise activities and thinking patterns that bring more happiness and joy to your life not only feels good, it's good for you! Studies show that happy people live longer. These past couple of years have been hard on us all, so as we move into a new school year, and new routines, it's a great time to stop and assess what brings you joy, as well as simple ways to work those moments and thought processes into your day.

Studies tell us that most people will experience at least one trauma as a young person. Trauma is not just what happens to us, it is how we process what happens to us. Emotional trauma is a natural response to a distressing event, and can include symptoms such as depression, anxiety, self-blame, trouble sleeping, or a sense of helplessness.

After a traumatic event, in times of duress, and in the ups and downs of everyday life, self-regulation, self-efficacy, supportive relationships, and problem-solving skills are critical. A trauma-informed learning environment can help mitigate the impact of trauma and promote these protective skill sets, helping students feel safe and supported- socially, emotionally, and academically.

Social Emotional Learning teaches these life-long skills that are the building blocks for personal success in school, work, and our personal lives. Mabank ISD integrates guidance curriculum from Capturing Kids Hearts and Momentous Institute' ChangeMaker's program to teach our students the five tenants of social emotional learning and to weave the building of those skills into our everyday interactions. Almost anywhere you look, the research confirms what we know to be true – that people with solid social emotional intelligence are happier, healthier and more successful.

This is an amazing scholarship opportunity available to any Texas student who plans to pursue a trade or vocational degree or certification at an accredited community college or nonprofit trade school in the state of Texas. The Life Association Scholarship may be used for tuition, fees, books, and equipment. They only have 1 applicant as of April 21st, so please share this great opportunity!

Click the link below to complete the 2022 Universal Application for the Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT) scholarship opportunities. This allows you to apply for multiple scholarships hosted by CFT in one spot.

A chatbot named ADVi – short for “adviser” – uses artificial intelligence to provide on-demand support to Texans looking to attend or return to higher education. Right now, any student in Texas may access ADVi by texting “COLLEGE” to 512-829-3687 or by starting a freshman application in ApplyTexas.

When students sign up to receive messages from ADVi, they receive:

• The ability to ask questions about college 24/7 via text message,
• Backup support from our virtual advisers if a student has needs or questions beyond what ADVi can provide,
• Student-friendly, accurate, and engaging messages about key college access milestones,
• Information and tips to help with their college applications, planning, and financial aid, and
• Resources to help navigate the transition to college.

Learn more at www.askADVi.org.

Ashley Ward, MS, LPC Coordinator of Counseling

Email: amward@mabankisd.net
Website: https://www.mabankisd.net/page/counseling
Location: 310 East Market Street, Mabank, TX, USA
Phone: 903.880.1300
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mabankisd
Twitter: @mabankisd