Fostering Student Mental Health and Resilience

As we begin the 2024-25 school year and settle into new routines, different classes, and evolving friendships, Da Vinci educators are working to boost student resilience by promoting mental health and wellness resources. 

Schools can play a critical role as providers of mental health services and resources as the number of teens experiencing depression and anxiety continues to grow post-pandemic. Each of Da Vinci’s high schools has three to four counselors and a school psychologist for approximately 530 students (a ratio of 171:1), far below the CA statewide average of 464:1 and well below the American School Counselor Association recommendation of 250:1. Counselors provide mental health services, academic guidance as well as college and career counseling.

In addition, Da Vinci partners with several community-based organizations to support students’ social emotional learning and mental well-being. Integrated into September’s observance of Suicide Prevention Month, Da Vinci has re-committed to our ongoing partnerships with mental health providers from various local agencies including Pepperdine and Antioch Universities as well as the Social & Emotional Wellness Initiative. We also have launched a new partnership with Hazel Health to provide accessible virtual mental health services at no cost to Da Vinci families. Hazel Health offers scheduled therapy appointments, and access to licensed, bilingual, and diverse therapists who are experts in the needs of children and teens. Hazel Health also is able to provide additional care coordination. 

We encourage students and families to reach out to our expert team of counselors and psychologists if support is needed for you or your student. Resources collated from local and nationwide experts can be found on our new Mental Health Resources webpage. We are committed to creating supportive learning environments where students can thrive socially, emotionally and academically.