At Union County Public Schools (UCPS), supporting our students academically and emotionally is at the core of everything we do. Just as crucial is ensuring the well-being of those who care for our students: the student support staff. On Aug. 20, at Sun Valley High, the focus was on the health and wellness of these employees during the UCPS Student Support Professional Development Day.
The event brought together school social workers, counselors, mental health therapists, psychologists and nurses, alongside behavior therapists and school social workers from county partnerships—key figures supporting students facing various challenges. The day included training and focused on self-care, which is essential for handling the demands of their daily work.
The schedule was packed with professional development and wellness activities, beginning with team meetings, trainings and a session on trauma led by John Richardson-Lauve, senior director of community outreach and trauma-informed care specialist for St. Joseph's Villa. A mindfulness session and restorative activities were part of the afternoon's activities, along with another session about the domains of self-care led by Richardson-Lauve.
"This brings departments together so we can work collaboratively. Staff members don't always see each other because we may not be in the same schools or the busyness of the day takes over. It gives us time to see each other and start the year on the right foot," said Moira Hancock, a lead school counselor.
Hancock thought the wellness stations were fantastic, as they provided a great way to ensure that those who care for others also take time to care for themselves.
One of the highlights was the opportunity for staff to explore these wellness stations, which offered a range of activities designed to rejuvenate mind and body, from office workouts and resistance band exercises to art mindfulness and essential oil therapy. The intention was to equip staff with tools they could use in their professional settings and personal lives. Danielle Morrissey, a mental health therapist at the Behavioral Health Collaborative serving the Porter Ridge cluster, particularly enjoyed the addition of the coloring station.
"It was a great break. I think that repetitive behaviors, routines and structure of coloring help you relax. You don't have to put a lot of thought into it. It's an activity you can use with students or for yourself," said Morrissey.
The event wrapped up with a yoga session led by YogaSix Waxhaw, an optional activity that provided a calming end to a day dedicated to healing and renewal.
Director of Student Support Kasha Giddins emphasized the importance of such efforts, stating, "Our student support staff pour so much into their roles, often prioritizing others' needs over their own. Today is about reversing that, even if only for a few hours, to remind them that their well-being is as important as the students they care for."
08/26/2024
