TOLEDO, Ohio – Recently, Toledo Public Schools held a unique board meeting, bringing student voices to the forefront. The students guided the discussion, showcasing their leadership skills with support from SMARTS, which stands for Students Making Achievements Right This Second.
Board President Bob Vasquez opened the meeting, after which he and other board members exchanged their seats with five student leaders. This creative change allowed the students to present their thoughts on an important topic: mental health.
Stephenie Williams, a senior at Jones Leadership Academy of Business, spoke about the challenges students face. “School can be really draining, and it affects mental health,” she explained. Some students feel hesitant to talk to adults about their struggles, as those issues often remain hidden.
The student leaders shared their ideas on how Toledo Public Schools could better support mental health. They pointed out that many students might not even know what resources are available to them. Their conversation covered both present issues and future solutions.
Some of their suggestions included:
- Partnering with universities to provide mental health training
- Establishing peer support programs to encourage open discussions
- Creating wellness rooms for students to relax and focus on their well-being
Vasquez expressed appreciation for the students’ perspectives, emphasizing the need for adults to listen. “Sometimes we think we know best, but young people can offer valuable insights,” he noted.
Williams encouraged all students to speak up about their needs. “If you want to see a change at school, talk to someone. You have the power to make it happen,” she said.
The school leaders are also working on fundraising efforts, reaching out to alumni with a goal of raising $15,000 for wellness rooms to assist students further.
