Mental Health Advisory Committee Documents

Meeting Minutes 2025-26


ELPS Mental Health Advisory Committee 
Meeting Agenda

December 8, 2025

ELHS Library and Hub 5:30pm-7:00pm

Attendance

Welcome & Introductions (5:30-5:35 PM)

Overview of Committee Purpose & Goals (5:40 – 5:50 PM) 

  • Support the mental health and well-being of students 
  • Promote collaboration between district, school staff, families, and community partners 
  • Provide guidance on policies, programming, and initiatives 

Review of Past Initiatives & Outcomes (5:50 – 6:00 PM) 

  • Summary of previous years’ goals and plans 
  • Discussion of successes, challenges, and lessons learned

Current Priorities & Projects: Committee Membership (align or maintain separate)  

  • Program Evaluation: Building a feedback framework to assess existing SEL and mental health programs, including data collection, analysis, and recommendations for improvement. 
  • Policy Development: Reviewing current policies, suggesting updates, or helping develop new policies related to mental health and SEL. 
  • Activities and Events: Supporting initiatives and awareness campaigns at building & district levels 
  • Strategic Planning: Assisting in the creation of a 1-, 3-, and 5-year Strategic Plan to guide MHAC.

Discussion: Needs & Opportunities (6:35 – 6:55 PM) 

Brainstorm ideas for future initiatives or collaborations 

Next Steps & Action Items (6:55 – 7:00 PM) 

  • Assign responsibilities or follow-ups
  • January 26, 2025 5:30pm-7:00pm 

Adjournment: Closing & Next Meeting Date (6:55–7:00 PM) 


Meeting Minutes 2024-25

Mental Health Advisory Committee 
Meeting Minutes

May 12, 2025

ELHS Library and Hub 5:30pm-7:00pm

Call to Order (Start in the HUB) (Fin)

  • Present:
  • Absent:
  • Note taker:
  • Welcome

Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by

Approval of the meeting minutes

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by

Public Comment

  • Fin will send out:
  • Photo Reel
  • Review Feedback
  • The SUMMIT:
  • This was a tremendous mental and physical load for some MHAC members to pull this event off.
  • Acknowledgement and deep appreciation for the time and energy it took to get us there.
  • Survey feedback reviewed
    • Recurring takeaways: More advertising, more activities (esp for younger kids), more teacher/admin/Board presence desired, overall very complimentary, banner over Door 8 was awesome
  • Other ideas discussed
    • Extra credit as incentive for students to attend? - not representative learning, punishes those who cannot be at the event
    • Should the event be longer?
    • Should it have a later start time?○ Should it move to a Saturday?
    • Maybe focus of Middle and Elementary School subcommittees could be on getting those families to the summit (better advertising)
    • Raffle prize drawing conflicted with presentations
    • Small footprint this year was an improvement
    • Giveaway bags for attendees to carry their swag
    • Start planning earlier and let teachers district-wide know the dates in the fall
    • Add sponsor logos to the back the t-shirt
    • More sticky hooks needed for next year
  • Positive Gram - Still in the middle of the project, but feedback received so far:
    • Inconsistency in expectations vs delivery
    • Need clarity around what visitors will be doing in the class
    • Next year need to offer specific times and days of availability, WAY too burdensome for staff to schedule the way we did this year.
    • Perhaps do this work in February rather than so close to the summit
    • Fun that each committee member is putting their own spin on the activity, a bit more structure may beneeded, but not scripted

New Business

  • Tykocki met with Interim Police Chief Jen Brown and learned ELPD is hiring a new social worker with a July start date to cover weekend and evening needs in the community. Desire expressed on ELPD side to "repair" relations with ELPS and find opportunities to recruit from ELHS graduate pool.

End of Year Notes

  • Foster - This has been the best year we have had behaviorally since he started teaching in 2002. The securitystaff is great. Hope to add something similar to middle school?
    • Tykocki - Echoed. Truly a testament to the work of the mental health and safety teams and to the district for prioritizing this need.
  • Fin to reach back out to all members about next school year in August

Announcements

Adjournment

Mental Health Advisory Committee 
Meeting Minutes

April 14, 2025

ELHS Library and Hub 5:30pm-7:00pm

Call to Order (Start in the Library) (Fin)

  • Present: Mark Foster, Gabby Pruitt, Diane Cox, Kristin Sesti, Paul Walworth, Klaudia Burton, Quiana Davis-Lewis, Amy Martin, Lila Tuell, Anne’ka Marzette Armstrong, Lisa Coyle
  • Absent: Joseph Eiland, Monica Trevino
  • Note taker:
  • Sign in for Attendance

Welcome

Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by

Approval of the meeting minutes

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by

Public Comment

Old Business

  • GPL Update (MySAEBRS and Focus Group): (Fin)
    • Fin to present 4.30.25 with Sarah from Harvard to Dori and others
      • MySAEBRS and Focus Group
  • ACMH Update (Fin)
    • Sunshine’s position has been eliminated. Thankful for her work with the listening sessions with thehigh schoolers.
    • Plan to write a thank you note at the next meeting

Committee Updates and Next Steps

  • Secondary Committee
  • Elementary Subcommittee
    • Positive Grams
    • Local Resources
  • Mental Health and Wellness Summit
    • Review Program Outline
    • Sign Up Genius
    • Sign Participant Thank Yous
    • Sign Volunteer Thank yous
    • Take Flyer 1
    • Take Flyer 2
  • Fundraising and Publicity:
    • Shirts handed out , Donations, Amazon Wishlist
    • Publications resent out

New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

Announcements

Next Full Committee Meeting: 5.12.25 (Last of the year) (with Sarah and Harvard)

Adjournment

Mental Health Advisory Committee 
Meeting Minutes

March 10, 2025

ELHS Library and Hub 5:30pm-7:00pm

Call to Order (Start in the Library) (Fin) at 5:35pm

Present: Pruitt, Tykocki, Findley, Peatross, Foster, Martin, Armstrong, Cox, Parcell, Davis, Lewis, Sesti, Burton,Walworth, Coyle

Absent: Dunn, Eiland

Note taker: Tykocki

Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

A motion to approve the agenda was made by Parcell, seconded by Martin.

Approval of the meeting minutes

A motion to approve the minutes was made by Peatross, seconded by Armstrong.

Public Comment

Gabby Pruitt earned a track scholarship to GVSU!!! Congratulations Gabby!

Help pay for our meeting snacks if you are able via Venmo @Kristin-Sesti Last 4 digits 4136

Old Business

    • TRAILS - how it is implemented at ELPS is well regarded and Fin has been asked to consult with other districts to improve their implementation.
    • GPL Update: (Fin)
      • ELHS Student Focus group update
        • First groups happened on 2.25.25, 3.11.25
          • Goal: Street data - are we walking the walk? What are we missing?
          • So far 12 students have participated
          • Analyzing transcripts, will share results and data
      • ELHS Caregiver Focus Group update
      • Donley Caregiver Focus Group update
        • Working over the next month on more focus groups
    • MySAEBRS
      • Year One Complete - YAY! Done in October and February
      • Analyzing disaggregated data
        • Viewing trends - at grade level, building level, 57 teachers request results for their students
          • Going to start with 3rd grade next time we do this
          • System crashed for 3 days so the data will be somewhat skewed
          • Systems in place to reach students before they’re in acute crisis
        • Potential steps-Email
          • If committee members have ideas of what questions or trends you want to see, please send them to Fin.
          • Concern about creating a situation where “moderate” students feel they have to worry about themselves, or feel called out
          • If someone’s scores start to increase, then follow up
          • Anyone on the list that is already worked with, follow up
            • Scores may bump with treatment because they are learning the skills to own and work with their feelings. Feeling empowered.
          • In the future, do not test in February because it’s dark/cloudy/cold and mental health is lower across the board.
          • Adding all “moderate” kids could overburden the staff with follow up
    • Committee Updates and Next Steps
    • Secondary Committee
      • Share Out-Amy M.
      • Movie Night on Feb 27
        • Last year’s movie night had to be canceled due to low interest
        • This year: 60-70 Kids! A lot were just on their cellphones. Next year, no cellphones. Some kids went to movie night rather than other clubs because they wanted the experience of community. They stayed to help clean up. A great event for kids to socialize in a safe place with snacks.
    • Elementary Subcommittee
      • Has been approved to go into schools in May! So far 8 teachers expressed interest from 3 different buildings
    • Mental Health and Wellness Summit/Fundraising and Publicity
      • Pushing out an Amazon Wish List and will be finalized on Friday, sent to principals and parents
      • Reaching out to local news outlets for publicity
      • Shirts - draft of potential shirt with pricing will be circulated on Friday

New Business/Future Meeting Topics

Announcements

  • Next Full Committee Meeting: April 14, 202510. 

Adjournment

ELPS Mental Health Advisory Committee 
Meeting Agenda

March 10, 2025

ELHS Library and Hub 5:30pm-7:00pm

Call to Order (Start in the Library) (Fin)

Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by

Approval of the meeting minutes

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by

Public Comment

  • GPL Update: (Fin)
    • ELHS Student Focus group update
      • 2.25.25, 3.11.25
      • Analyzing transcripts, will share results and data
    • ELHS Caregiver Focus Group update
    • Donley Caregiver Focus Group update
  • MySAEBRS
    • Year One Complete
    • Analyzing disaggregated data
      • Viewing trends
      • Potential steps-Email
  • Committee Updates and Next Steps
  • Secondary Committee
    • Share Out-Amy M.
  • Elementary Subcommittee
    • Positive Grams
    • Can complete until Apr 1, 2025
  • Mental Health and Wellness Summit
    • Needed Spaces/Rooms
    • Volunteer Needs and Roles
    • Financial Needs
  • Fundraising and Publicity
    • Shirts
    • Community Council Request and Amazon Wish List Request Update
    • Publications

New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

Announcements

  • Next Full Committee Meeting: 2.10.24

Adjournment


Mental Health Advisory Committee 
Meeting Minutes

January 13, 2025

ELHS Library and Hub 5:30pm-7:00pm

Call to Order (Start in the Library) (Fin)

  • Present: Monica Trevino, Kristin Sesti, Heather Findley, Natalie Moser, Erin Parcell, Klaudia Burton, JenniferPeatross, Paul Walworth, Mark Foster Kristen Pfaendtner Amy Martin,Gabrielle Pruitt, Joseph Eiland
  • Absent: Krystal Dunn, Lisa Coyle, Anne’ke Marzette-Armstrong, Lila Tuell Diane Cox, Quiana Davis AbigailTykocki, Anissa Munoz
  • Note taker:
  • Sign in for Attendance 

Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by 

Approval of the meeting minutes

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by 

Public Comment

Welcome/Introductions

GPL Update:

  • Logistics
    • 75$ gift card visa for participants
    • Parent participation is an hour-team agreed that after school hours is best and that offering one in person and one virtually would be good
    • Student is one to two excel periods-advocated that students can receive a pass to participate the whole hour
  • Targeted participants
    • High School students
      • Two different groups of 8-10 participants
    • Caregivers in the district
      • Two different groups of 8-10 participants
    • Considerations for MHAC to make Recommendations
      • Who, how, when, where for caregivers
        • There was a robust conversation about whether or not caregivers from all buildings should be included or targeted buildings
        • If we are having focus groups for high school students there was discussion if for high school caregivers would be enough
      • Suggestions for recruiting participants○ Method of recruitment v. Targeted vs. free for all participants
        • It was discussed that targeted caregivers might be best because then we are intentionally identifying people who may offer insights into some of our questions regarding culture and beliefs of mental health services and or resistance 
      • Participant Permission/consent
        • What do we want to include content
        • Should a staff sit in on the student focus group? No because they might might be as authentic
      • Who/what approval for communication/recruitment
        • Administration should review documents

Committee and Action Focus

  • Mental Health and Wellness Summit : April 23, 2025
  • Donation Update-$1000 from the EL Basketball Club
  • Mental Health and Wellness Summit Fundraiser and Publicity (Elementary/Secondary)
    • Summit: Discussed possible vendors, goals for deadlines
    • Elementary discussed a general desire to support but do not want to overstep, so it was discussed how to communicate with administration and considered possible ideas. To continue at the next meeting 
    • Secondary : Amy Martin and Kristen Pfaendtner met to plan the middle school movie night.
      • Movie: Inside Out 2
      • Date: Feb 27, 2025
      • Location: MMS Media Center
      • Time: 3pm-5pm
    • To Do:
      • Make flyer to send out to parents: Kristen by Friday
      • Make Sign Up Genius for snacks/water: Kristen by Friday
      • Distribute flyer: Amy to MMS Parents/Guardians and community council, Kristen to Kali Stevens to post on ELPS social media
    • Misc notes: We are planning for 50 students. We didn’t discuss adult supervision, I’m sure Amy has that covered.
  • Fundraising: discussed how to look for donations
  • What is your committee’s goal by the next meeting?

New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

Announcements

  • Next Full Committee Meeting: 2.10.2510. 

Adjournment

Mental Health Advisory Committee 
Meeting Minutes

February 10, 2025

ELHS Library and Hub 5:30pm-7:00pm

Call to Order (Start in the Library) (Fin) at 5:33PM 

  • Present: Findley, Pruitt, Pfaendter, Walworth, Parcell, Foster, Martin, Coyle, Tykocki 
  • Absent: Cox, Davis, Burton, Eiland, Tuell, Munoz, Dunn, Trevino, Sesti, Armstrong, 
  • Note taker: Tykocki 

Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin) 

A motion to approve the agenda was made by Parcell, Seconded by Walworth 

Approval of the meeting minutes  

A motion to approve the minutes was made by Martin, Seconded by Pruitt 

Public Comment 

Jeff Davis from TRAILS & Ingham County Health Department visiting 

Welcome/Introductions

Old Business:   

  • GPL Update: 
    • Student Focus group update 
      • Feb 20 and 25  
      • 26 Potential Students identified in areas of economically vulnerable, juvenile justice involvement, high achievers, and school avoidant in a diversity of demographics. Hoping to have 20 participate. Consent is being obtained by Assoc. Principal Davis.  
    • Targeted participants 
      • MHAC asked to choose out of two options how to proceed with caregiver interviews 
        • Motion to choose Option 1: Focus on specific school buildings made by Tykocki, seconded by Pfaendtner. Passed unanimously. 
        • Option 1 is more logistically viable, there is a clear need at one elementary school, early invention for these young students is critical, opportunities for clear evaluation of improvement, which could inform future funding conversations around social work in school buildings 
        • Caregiver interviews will happen in March 

Committee and Action Focus 

  • Mental Health and Wellness Summit: April 23, 2025  
  • Mental Health and Wellness Summit Committee 
  • Fundraiser  
  • Elementary  
  • Secondary 
  • What is your committee’s goal by the next meeting?  
    • Summit Committee 
      • Joined fundraising conversation, recommend emails to principals and community councils with asks for $300 from elementary schools and $500 from middles school. 
      • Prize Basket ideas for Amazon Wishlist 
      • Asking Sunshine about getting a speaker with lived experience.  
      • LAST DATE TO COMMIT TO PARTICIPATING IS MARCH. Send any possible contacts to Erin Parcell asap. 
    • Elementary Subcommittee 
      • Offering to lead a lesson in Positive Grams during in-school hours. Tykocki will email group to collect dates of availability and pass to Fin by the 18th. (Possibility for help from StuCo as they already do Kindness Grams. Pruitt to liaise as needed. 
      • Offering packet of information to be emailed to families at the start of May for Mental Health Awareness Month 
      • Fin will get calendars from each school to assist in scheduling
    • Secondary Committee 
      • Cocoa and Cram was a success. ~70 students. Thank you to the Counseling Team!! 
      • Hygge night got a heartfelt thank you from a caregiver whose 9th grade student is rarely invited to events. Goal for more cross promotion of these events to students who typically are missed at extracurricular events.
    • Fundraising and Publicity 
      • $1000 received from East Lansing Basketball - THANK YOU!! 
      • Fin - Passport, Flyer, Sherry Seyka. NHS Kids, Concessions 
      • Publicize to ELi, WKAR, LSJ
    • SPARK Update 
      • Bake sale coming up! Thursday 

New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

  • At 3.10.25 Meeting please review your committee below to see what we hope to have had done prior to the meeting or during the meeting: 
    • Elementary Subcommittee:  
      • Work on logistics and have plans to connect with each building if requested.  
      • If agreed upon, start working on Summer Mental Health Toolkit 
      • Who should we ask to see about Caregiver engagement in focus groups from Donley?
    • Secondary Committee:  
      • Should be able to update regarding MMS Movie night, ELHS 2nd Hygge night 
      • SPARK-How was the Bake Sale? What do you plan to do with funds? 
      • Consider who should be targeted for Caregiver Focus Group involvement 
    • Fundraising and Publicity: 
      • Should have Amazon Wishlist approved and posted (can be added to) 
      • Coordinate with Summit Committee regarding budget needs vs. Prizes and raffle 
      • Work to create social media posts 
      • Plan when/how to reach out to news outlets
    • Summit: 
      • Finalize Participation and what each organization will offer 
      • Start deciding where people will be stationed 
      • Timing? How are we letting people know? 
      • NHS Hours-specific tasks?

Announcements

  • Next Full Committee Meeting: 3.10.24 
  • NEXT MEETINGS ARE MARCH 10 AND APRIL 14 - make sure they’re on your calendars. 
  • Please have at least one subcommittee member bring a computer 

Adjournment 6:59PM

Mental Health Advisory Committee 
Meeting Minutes

December 9, 2024

ELHS Library and Hub 5:30pm-7:00pm

Call to Order (Start in the Library) (Fin)

  • Meeting was called to order at 5:30pm

Attendance

  • Present: Fin, Quiana Davis, Jennifer Peatross, Kristin Sesti, Kristen Pfaendtner, Natalie Moser, Gabrielle Pruitt, Erin Parcell, Abbie Tykocki, Paul Walworth, Klaudia Burton
  • Absent: Lila Tuell, Mark Foster, Amy Martin, Joseph Eiland, Krystal Davis-Dunn, Somer Ramadan
  • Note taker: Jennifer Peatross 
  • Sign in for Attendance

Welcome/Introductions

  • Introduction of new members (Quiana Davis)

Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by Kristin Sesti and seconded by Pfaendtner

Approval of the meeting minutes

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by Erin and seconded by Abby

Public Comment

Agenda Topics: 5:40

  • Committee and Action Focus
  • Activities/Initiatives: Cocoa and Cram, Hygge, Positivity Grams, Stall, Zines
  • Mental Health and Wellness Summit
  • Fundraiser and Publicity 
  • Elementary
  • Secondary
  • Mental Health and Wellness Summit : April 23, 2025
  • Next Steps:
    • Each Committee given contact information for potential partners/buildings/admin
    • Create a timeline for what you want to do throughout the year
      • For example, with the ‘zines and mental health art:
        • Contact building admin-are they interested? If so, ask for art contact folks
        • Ask for times of the month that may work
        • Solidify project/date/who will be involved
  • 6:20 pm-6:25 pm-Break and Transition to HUB The zoom link
  • 6:25-700: Building local school capacity to effectively connect students to mental health supports (pg 2)
    • GPL MDHHS Project Description 2024-2025 (003).pdf
    • SAEBRS_MySAEBRS_Screening_Tool.pdf
    • Sarah Forrest, Project Leader, Harvard Kennedy School Government Performance Lab (GPL)supporting MDHHS Bureau of Children’s Coordinated Health Policy & Supports
    • Carla Pretto, Executive Director Association for Children's Mental Health
    • Sunshine Riddle, Family-Driven Youth-Guided Analyst, Association for Children’s Mental Health
    • Aneysa Rogers - Mental Health and Education Partnership Analyst at Michigan Department of Healthand Human Services (MDHHS)
    • Dianna Robinson- Family Training & Empowerment Specialist & ACMH Parent Advisory Committee Coordinator


New Business/Future Meeting Topics

  • Sesti and Pfaendtner have agreed to co-chair/facilitate the Mental Health club at the HS (2nd meeting was held today) - SPARK (Students Promoting Awareness Resilience and Kindness)
  • Brief overview of documents given out by Fin
  • Mental Health Summit Date originally scheduled for April 30th; Now moved Summit to April 23, 2024 from5-7pm (maybe extending to 7:30pm)
  • Committee Breakouts
    • MH Summit, Elementary, Secondary, Fundraising and Publicity
  • Presentation with Carla Pretto and Sunshine Riddle (Association for Children’s Mental Health) funded by SAMSA; also Sarah Forrest through Harvard and DHHS partnerships 
  • Who we want to reach:
    • Youth and families where there are barriers to mental health access & current programing may not be meeting needs like:
    • Youth and families in poverty
    • Youth and families with high stigma about mental health
    • immigrant & first generation students, ELL
    • High achieving students - academics, sports - where pressure may be intense
    • Youth and families who have been involved in systems - child welfare, juvenile justice
    • Male students
    • Those opting out of screening tools or school SEL initiatives
    • Lack of connection to school and community
    • Discipline
    • Alternative pathway to graduation (Graduation Alliance)
  • What's going well that we'd like to build on:
    • High participation in MySAEBERS screening tool (only 53 opt out)
    • Peer messengers and strategies for both youth and caregivers
    • Hope Club - Providers coordinate to provide universal point of access to needed services, including mental health & basic needs
    • 47 referrals to 31N currently in ELPS this school year; 7 declined and 4 already receiving services

Announcements

  • Next Full Committee Meeting: 1.13.2510. 

Adjournment

  • The meeting was adjourned at 6:59pm

Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
November 11, 2024

1. Call to Order (Fin) (5min) The meeting was called to order at 5:32pm

  • Present: Abbie Tykocki, Kristen Pfaendtner, Natalie Moser Lila Tuell, Gabrielle Pruitt, Erin Parcell, Anissa Munoz, Anne’ka Marzette-Armstrong, Lisa Coyle, Diane Cox, Paul Walworth, Somer Ramadan, Jennifer Peatross Kristin Sesti, Krystal Davis-Dunn, Mark Foster Amy Martin, Heather Findley
  • Absent: Quiana Davis, Klaudia Burton, Joseph Eiland
  • Note taker: Kristen Pfaendtner

2. Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by Natalie, seconded by Abby

3. Approval of the meeting minutes (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by no previous meeting

4. Public Comment (If Applicable) There were about 50 applications and 20 people were selected.

5. Agenda Topics

  • Sign in for Attendance
  • Welcome/Introductions-Share your role/rationale for participating in MHAC
  • Last year Accomplishments

    • Mental Health and Wellness Summ, Year 1 200+ people in attendance, 15 providers
    • Zines at Elementary Schools 3 elementary schools: Donley, Whitehills, MMS (not an elementary school)
    • Cocoa and Cram at the High School 77 students attended, had tutors and relaxing things to do. Painting rocks was a big hit.
  • Goals for this school year

    • Mental Health and Wellness Summit, Year 2 End of April or beginning of May to coincide with mental health month Next meeting we will decide a date.
    • Do we want to offer a Speaker Series? Lunch and learn? After school? Possibly offer an asynchronous option.
    • What else? This year we want to repeat 1. Mental Health and Wellness Summit Year 2, 2. Zines at the Elementary Schools, 3. Cocoa and Cram
  • Committee formation Google form will be sent out to rate your preference of committee.
    • Fundraising/Publicity
    • Mental Health and Wellness Summit
    • Elementary
    • Secondary

6. New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

  • Have a “Hygge Night” at the middle school and high school. Possibly December 13th. Possibly open concessions at the high school and sell candy as a fundraiser at the middle school. Watch Inside Out and discuss emotions. Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word that describes a feeling of contentment and coziness that comes from comfort and conviviality. It's pronounced "hoo-gah". The word is associated with relaxation, gratitude, and indulgence. It can also refer to the act of creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying life's good things with good people.
  • Possibly have a Hygge Night at the high school and invite the elementary schools. 3 one night and 3 another night. (they do this in my cousin’s town in Tennessee and it is well attended) This would allow a bigger space and availability to open concessions for fundraising possibly.
  • Student engagement and outreach: Positive Grams, Post it walls **Stu Co was asking me for ideas regarding student engagement so we may be able to partner with them?**
  • Invite student organizations for the mental health summit: BSU, SGE, LSU for example.
  • Mental Health Club: will meet 1/month for 1-2 hours. Maybe partner with MHAC for activities
  • Parent engagement
  • Set a 2yr, 3yr, and 5yr goal
  • Transition to college: find a recent ELHS grad to come and talk to students about the transition to college
  • Find resources for mental health for college
  • There are bridge programs at some colleges that may be able to come and talk
  • Have NHS or other students volunteer at Middle School and High School 101. Have 7th/8th grade students come and talk about the transition to middle school and have 10th/11th grade students come and talk about the transition to high school.
  • Youth Mental Health First Aid for Community/Parents & Students in Mental Health Club.
  • MHAC Stall Stories in bathroom stalls

7. Announcements

Next Full Committee Meeting: 12/9/24
Prior to the next meeting, please complete this google form

8. Adjournment

  • The meeting was adjourned at 6:45pm



Meeting Minutes 2023-24

Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda April 2, 2024


1. Call to Order (Fin)

  • Present: Fin, Nyx, Kristin Sesti, Diane Cox Powe, Kurt Scholler
  • Absent: ML Konett, Gaby Hodkinson, Leo Kendall, Gina Zerka, Klaudia Burton, Quiana Davis, Heather Mueller
  • Note taker: Kristin Sesti

2. Approval of the meeting agenda

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by

3. Approval of the meeting minutes

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by

4. Public Comment (If Applicable)None

5. Agenda Topics

  • Summit Needs:
    • Donations (financial, art supplies, office supplies)
      • Discussed that we have 500 dollars donated, and requested folks continue to spread the word.
      • Hoping to secure $1000 total
    • Anyone have a couple bean bags we could borrow
      • Sesti has secured corn hole items
    • Reminder Email to booth participants (ask for arrival at 515)
      • Fin to send out ASAP
    • Volunteers-Sign Up Genius
      • Secured two adults, and 10 students thus far, hoping for a couple more adults 
    • We need folks to make signs
      • Directions to things
      • nuts/allergies
      • Welcoming
        • Sesti will make nuts/allergies signs
        • Nyx will connect with Kali Stevens to create other signs
        • We did not do an actual walk through because there were a lot of events happening throughout the school
  • Summit Walk Through
    • We did not do an actual walk through because there were a lot of events happening throughout the school
    • Discussed set up and plan 
    • Diane said she would help in whatever way is helpful the day of

6. NewBusiness/Future Meeting Topics

7. Announcements

Next Full Committee Meeting: Monday, Apr 22, 2024 6pm-8pm in the HUB

8. Adjournment


Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
March 4, 2024

1. Call to Order (Fin) (5min)

    • Present: Heather Findley, Heather Muller, Gabby, Leo, Mark, Mark foster, Erin, Gina, Diane, Nyx, Kristen
    • Absent: Klaudia Burton, Quiana Davis, ML Konett
    • Note taker: Nyx Zoll

2. Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by Diane, seconded by Muller

3. Approval of the meeting minutes (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by Kristen, seconded by Muller

4. Public Comment (If Applicable)

5. Agenda Topics

  • Summit Updates:
    • Fin emailed Vince and Billy from Custodial and Maintenance, indicating we will need support and equipment that day
    • Fin connected with Nikki Norris from activities and we have been approved to use all requested spaces
    • Fin has requested to borrow popcorn machine from ELHS activities
    • Flyers for information and donation requests have been posted on ELPS FB, insta and will be on the ELPS website. Feel free to share on your own

Notes from 3.4.24 (answers to questions are bolded and in the tables below for each subcommittee)

6. Notes:

  • fin starts about the summit and how we are using school resources like chairs and tables, classrooms and the gyms.
  • Possibly using the gymnastics room for yoga if yoga happens
  • Mentions fliers and donations real quick and how we can publicize it and get the word out to more people in this time. The flyers have the logo and the QR code directs you to the Donation Letter. Currently have $50 in donations
  • Talk over how many people are doing presentations for the summit and theres about 8-9 people expressing interest but still have to solidify.
  • Foster asks about getting the newscast on the event and broadcasting it. Possibility.
  • Publicity should connect with news stations about possible news getting the word out. Need approval
  • Talking to the ELHS portrait to get the word out on their socials. Figuring out what is needed for certain events and what the people running the events will need.
  • Foster asks if Dori is in the loop and if she is willing to donate anything. Fin confirmed she is aware of the event, but has not been asked for financial support.
  • Going into breakout rooms to then figure things out within our groups to answer/address questions in the charts
  • When we returned from Breakout Rooms we reviewed some of the questions and answers. Confirmed that finalizing participation is after Wednesday, March 6th. Final Participation to be shared with MHAC group 3.8.24
  • Agenda group to find out how many presentations each provider is offering

7. New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

  • None

8. Announcements

Next Full Committee Meeting: April 2, 2024; Optional: 3/18/24

9. Adjournment


Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda 
February 5, 2024

1. Call to Order - 6:03 PM

  • Present: Heather F, Heather M, Erin P, Mark F, ML Konnett, Klaudia, Kristin, Kurt S
  • Absent: Jennifer, Quiana
  • Note taker: Klaudia

2. Approval of the meeting agenda

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by Heather Mueller and seconded ML Konnett

3. Approval of the meeting minutes

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by Heather Mueller and seconded ML Konnett

4. Public Comment (If Applicable)

  • None

5. Agenda Topics

  • MSU Shooting - 2.13.23 Statement proposed to the Office of Resource and Support Coordination:
    • Statement to the ELPS community:
      • “Mental Health Advisory Committee at ELPS - We would like to acknowledge the anniversary of the MSU shooting on Tuesday, Feb 13. We honor all of the lives affected by this campus tragedy. We support positive mental health for the greater EL community.”
    • Awaiting approval from ELPS staff/admin before posting
  • Mental Health Night
    • Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 4-8 PM
    • Areas reserved: Hub, Media Center, Cafeteria, and Main Gym
    • Need to decide: Heather - Shift and change the name from “carnival” to “summit” if possible; based on feedback from elementary staff member
    • Things to do:
      • Timeline
      • Theme
      • Solidy presenters
    • New Committees
      • Agenda/Program: Looking at vendor participation and decide what we need to send out to vendors to obtain information; sign up sheet for vendors
      • Publicity: Create a Google Form for teachers to provide to students to sign up; create a flier for social media; Kurt - newsletter, email groups
        • ML, Kurt, Nyx
      • Operations: Contact folks for specifics about the needs of areas
        • Diane, Heather M, Jennifer P
      • Donations: Create a donation letter, get approval from the finance department; figure out what
        • Donation Needs: Light Refreshments, T-Shirts, Decor, Programs, Art Supplies, Games/Activities
        • Klaudia, Gabby H
      • Theme: Create theme and name; Voting for naming of event: “Mental Health and Wellness Summit” or “Mental Health and Wellness Night”
        • Kristin
    • Requested Participants: Brighter Health Counseling, Rooted Counseling, Cedar Creek Hospital, Canines for Change, East Lansing Public Library, Helping Women Period, New Oakland, the Ingham ISD, the Ingham Health Department, United Resilience, and Positive Somebody want to participate
      • Vision/MissionStatement
      • Incentivizing

6. New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

  • Heather sending Mark F form for teachers who may want to present
  • Agenda Committee - Sending out participant form
  • Publicity - Heather to connect members with brother for logo design/social media content

7. Announcements

Next Full Committee Meeting: 3/4/24 in person

8. Adjournment


Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda 
January 22, 2024


1. Call to Order (Fin) (5min)

    • Present: Klaudia Burton, Diane Cox, Kurt Scholler Nyx Zoll, Leo Kendall, Heather Mueller, Heather Findley (Fin), Quiana Davis, Kristin Sesti,
    • Absent: Gabriele Hodgkinson, Heidi D, Leea Hawkins, Matt Morales, Jess Peatross,, Erin Parcell, Djinn Thompson, Gina Zerka, Erin Purcell, Mark Foster
    • Note taker: ML Konett

2. Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

    • A motion to approve the agenda was made by Klaudia
    • A second was made by Kristin

3. Approval of the meeting minutes (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by Kristin
  • A second was given by Klaudia

4. Public Comment (If Applicable) None

5. Agenda Topics

  • Recent Events
    • Cocoa and Cram at ELHS - was amazing - 70 students present, tutoring, painting, will go on social media. Leo made positive comments. Nyx echoed the surprise in numbers. It was shared that students would like to see this each semester. H1 - shared that the alliteration with the name, from 2 teachers, that ‘cram’ isn’t what students should be doing.
    • Marble and Donley ‘Zines - comments from Leo - positive! Thanks to Gina and Kurt - going over the skill and goals are for the ‘zines.
  • 2.13.23
    • Do we want to share a statement of support or a message on Social Media.
    • United message - put in chat or send in email to Fin for possible unity statement.
    • Please comment on any emails concerning this so we can work together to come up with an ELPS statementCollab with Office for Resource and Support Coordination and United Resiliency Center
    • Wednesday, April 24, 2024
    • Need to decide:
      • 530-730
      • Discussions ensued about our Why? Mission and Format
      • Took a informal vote about sign-up for specific events
      • We can use: Union, HUB, library, gym and probably a couple classrooms
      • Review places that are interested in having a booth: Do we want anymore?
      • Do we ask for donations for a raffle? (no money, but perhaps different items like gift cards?-is someone willing to ask community members/businesses?
      • Do we ask to borrow a ping pong table or an air hockey table?
      • Floor Hockey? Basketball Badminton - Pickle Ball!
      • Make sure to reach out to the Building Facilities (Custodial staff) has been contacted on the MHC date
      • Make sure the volunteer sign-up sheet has age specificity (if needed)
      • Update volunteer forms for set-up and clean-up
      • Do we want to get donated massages for staff or yoga for everyone?
      • How do we want to advertise or encourage the community to partWed email) who she will be contacting
      • Letter/email will give the WHY and asking for donations - Ms Q and Fin will draft this

6. New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

  • email to come on Wednesday from Fin that includes volunteer form for participants to engage in Carnival, attendance for tonight, and new committee selection to focus on carnival
  • we will have new committees to plan the Mental Health Carnival, this will be in the email

7. Announcements

  • Next Full Committee Meeting: Monday, Feb 5th

8. Adjournment734pm


ELPS MHAC Notes 12/11/2023
Meeting start 6:34pm

Attendees: Fin; Heather M, Gina, Kurt, Klaudia, Leah, Diane, Kristin, Nyx, Gabbi, Leo, Mark, Hedi
Absent: ML Konnet, Jen Peatross

  • Motion to approve: Kristin Sesti Second -Heather Mueller
  • Motion to approve last weeks Agenda -Heather M, Seconded by Kristin Sesti
  • Public Comment Invite- None

Community Resources

  • Review of the ELPS Community Resource Guide with QR Code (hyperlink within)
    • Question on distribution?
      • Answer: went out last friday from central office to community; went directly to Admin, Eblast and QR code posted in the High school
    • Question: Is there a resource list for agencies for particularly marginalized communities, such as LGBTQIA folks?
      • Answer: Not at this time, Basic needs was the primary focus and looks to grow to cover a variety of needs
    • Kurt asked before we got into subcommittees: Question: What's the rationale behind Exams After Winter Break? Answer by Quiana Davis::Instructional Days- equal to meet semester needs
      • High school admin has allowed teachers to do so at their discretions
      • Contractual Agreement
  • Student Support around Winter Break: Break Out into Committees
    • Secondary Subcommittee
      • Discussed having a survey to ask what students would be interested in doing during excel of exam week such as painting, art work or something else
      • Discussed finalizing “cocoa and cram” tutoring support after school Tuesday 1/9/23 at the high school with cocoa and cookies
      • Heidi ensured consideration would be made to recognize middle school-Fin indicated that she would talk to ML and Amy about possible collaboration with the zines or another activity (the zine inquiry has been sent to teachers several times with limited response.”
    • Elementary Subcommittee
      • ZINES Update
        • Adults to explain rationale(art teachers) (TOT to train others)-Emails to start going out this week
        • Teens to work it out- walk through the activities to prepare others to share with the students
        • It is okay to go into January 2024
    • Staff Subcommittee:
        • What are the staff issues as it pertains to student needs/issues?
        • Why are students coming to SS?
        • How can SS share information to staff?
        • Is there a way to alert “something is” happening with a kiddo?
        • How do we create a sense of community around supports?
        • MH Crisis Intervention Flow chart for Educational settings non specific to clinicians- all adults in lieu of relationships (if this, then what?) Self harm, Suicidal ideation, email communication, remind ect.,
          Securly—-SO what now what (YMHFA? Or other)
        • Tools for staff to support Youth
        • How do we Support the Adults who care for Youth?
        • How to prioritize staff wellness
        • Exercises we could work on together to growth
        • Intentional built in time for this SE development in adults
        • How do we explore what we “come with” as individuals
        • Personality Exploration
        • Possible Onward (or similar for book study)
  • Community Mental Health Carnival Ideas
    • There was conversation with the team about how originally March being proposed may be too soon given the scope of what is proposed. Discussed possible dates in April and May. Fin will send out a survey to ask about best dates/times and will connect with Ashley Schwarzbek, Principal, and Nikki Norris, Athletic Director and Activities Director about use of facilities
    • Staff subcommittee ideas
      • District Resources (staff Handbook)- Substance abuse, EAP, List of current providers taking patients and insurance type
        • Personal Surveys
        • Podcast Offerings and mention of special followings (Brene Brown)
        • Apps- Calm, Headspace, Breathing, fabulous
        • Sleeping help( night time routine)
        • Free Vendors
        • Discount
        • Arts, Singing- playing music, museums, nature trails
        • Playmakers- running, walking, cycling
        • Massages- Other wellness options that are accessible with staff insurance (acupuncture, Isolation chambers, salt cave, wellness exploration, message
        • Games for adults- Places where stuff is happening (community Outings)
        • Sessions(breakout options)
      • Elementary subcommittee ideas:
        • Using the booklets again
        • Fluffy corner
        • Affirmation Station (clear rocks with affirmation to choose to glue on bottom)
        • Creative Expression: writers workshop (poems and short stories)
        • Stress Ball Station
        • Coloring Station
        • Mindfulness with Kurt (breakout session 20 min segments by age groups)
        • Creative games: give an answer and do a coping skill to get price
        • Music Related Activity: drumming circles
      • Secondary subcommittee:
      • hear from a teacher who has/is struggling with a mental health matter.
      • How to help a person I know is suffering with depression without enabling them.
      • By the numbers: startling statistics regarding mental health and what might the numbers look like 5 years from now. How will the increase in mental health issues among individuals impact my life, my work, my family, my friends, my upcoming college experience.
      • Helpful mental health inventories that can assist you in learning more about your own mental health status.
      • A breakdown of the similarities and differences and treatments of several mental illnesses: Anxiety, depression, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, dissocial disorders, and neurodevelopmental disorders
      • Talk and listen: students struggling with a mental illness or those that wish to hear from others to better understand mental illness will gather, the leader will provide some ground rules for appropriate and productive discussion, and allow students to communicate with one another about all things "mental health".
      • Knitting room
      • Yoga room
      • Tasks according to subcommittee members:
        • Diane Cox: to contact Jenny Metzmaker about Positive Somebody and then check with Mr. Lampi’
        • Gabby: Will check with church group about possible donations or involvement and then check with Mr. Lampi. Will also connect with SBIS about creating self love posters and see about their involvement in the mental health carnival
        • Mark Foster: Will check in with athletes about mentorship opportunities with younger students
        • Leo Kendall: Will connect with identity based student groups (ie: Alliance, SGE) about representation and involvement in the carnival and then talk to Mr. Lampi
  • A brief conversation was had about the capacity to offer so many things, how do we advertise? Do we get donations? How do we engage students from other buildings? Do we offer extra credit? Can we get investment from other staff?
  • Proposal of new Time of 6pm instead of 6:30-approved
  • Dates Proposed 2024: Monday Jan 22, Feb 12th

Future Business: Next Meeting to discuss carnival and review how Tuesday excel, MMS activity and zines went!

Meeting adjournment: 8:06pm


Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda November 20, 2023

1.Call to Order (Fin)

  • Present: Heather Findley, Klaudia Burton, Gabby H, Leea Hawkins, Nyx Zoll, Leo Kendall, Kristin Sesti, Kurt Sholler, Diane Cox Powe, ML Konett, Heather Mueller, Jen Peatross
  • Absent: Mark Foster, Quiana Davis, Djinn Thompson, Gina Zerka, Erin Purcell, Heidi Mendez
  • Note taker: Klaudia Burton

2. Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by Klaudia Burton and seconded by Kristin Sesti

3. Approval of the meeting minutes (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the minutes was made by Klaudia and seconded by Leo Kendall

4. Welcome-Introduction

  • ML Kennett-Middle School teacher and parent of three current or former ELPS students

5. Public Comment (If Applicable) None

6. Agenda Topics

  • Mental Health and Wellness in ELPS (Fin)
    • Supporting Board Goals
      • Nurturing the Whole Child
      • There was a discussion on the emphasis of the 2023 and 2024 school year focus of expanding tier one supports at both elementary and secondary levels
      • Leo asked for clarification on what TRAILS is and Kristi Sesti responded with a general overview of Tier I and Tier II levels. Heather Mueller requested clarification about if/how students may self refer to TRAILS. Kristin Sesit responded that yes they can self refer, but maybe we can expand promotion and advertisement. ML Konett asked if TRAILS is offered at MMS. and Heather Findley and Kristin Sesti confirmed that it is.
  • Committee Membership
    • Breakout(s): Membership of the Committees was reviewed with all the participants-Secondary, Elementary, Staff and Community
      • YMHFA Training in January-for the community: Did not discuss
      • Elementary and Secondary-Heather Findley asked for committee members to think about what kind of posters/displays could be done to support students
      • Holiday/break time-how can/should we support? This question is the primary focus of the breakouts today
  • Share Out from Subcommittees:
    • Staff-Find out what kids are saying. Kids could let us know what types of frustrations
      • they have at school. Sometimes the things that kids have frustrations about are the same things staff have frustrations about.
      • Find out what staff are saying. Staff could let us know what types of frustrations they have at school. Ask staff what types of support they could use beyond having doughnuts or a coffee on teacher appreciation day.
    • A counselor was able to share the following general information about what they hear when they meet with kids:
      • Teachers might be using vocabulary beyond the understanding of what kids know.
      • Some things are posted online and other things are not posted online for kids
      • Some kids are attentive but still don’t understand.
      • Some kids are inattentive in class
        • If a counselor sees 10 kids; one will be for entirely academic concerns and 9 will be seen for complete avoidance or SEL issues, or the student comes down by choice. The kids who are completely avoiding class may be brought down by Dorcas, Advocates or Security. Maybe the kids are found skipping. It would be helpful for staff to know that others are working as a team to help students. Is there a way to let staff know that kids are being seen or have multiple supports in place so the teacher isn’t thinking they are the only ones dealing with the student or their problems. Could PowerSchool send out a report to staff altering them that contact was made between the counseling office and the student – (could kids give permission to let teachers/staff know what is going on)
  • Community 
    • Consider these presentations from CMH. ML recommended that they be advertised to the community and we consider putting a couple on at various schools throughout the year.
    • Discussed putting out a newsletter blast before winter break that includes information about things/opportunities over break
    • Discussed at length creating a Mental Health Night, which then became an idea for a Mental health carnival. Mental Health Night
      • There was overwhelming support by participants indicating an interest in having this kind of event. Discussion was had about it being activity or informational based and ultimately the group decided to try to encompass both components. Klaudia talked about how this could be open to ALL EL residents and could encourage engagement and investment in the learning community.
      • When?-Generally it is thought that before Spring Break would be good, but given year remembrance of MSU, should we try to do sooner?
      • Have representatives from local agencies come and offer information and resources
      • Have a couple possible presentations about specific topics such as depression/anxiety, as well as addiction
      • Have a yoga room
      • Have a writing room-Nyx would like to support
      • Knitting room-ML Konett
      • Have a room with comfort items, such as stuffed animals
      • Have a couple rooms for different games
      • Have a mental health professional available to chat
      • Offer students extra credit
      • We could have a sheet where people could get “stamped” to prove participation, then have a raffle with prizes
      • Should we invite local politicians? News?
      • Invite staff throughout the district
  • Elementary
    • "Zine” - book prompts with mental health techniques/sentence starters
      • Leo will work with Key Club to make some different options.
      • Leo will work with Key Club to create a screencast of how to make them and Fin will then share them with elementary and MMS principals to share with their art teachers
    • Consider hosting an “art” event at one of the elementary schools over winter break
      • Fin will help supervise
      • If any other MHAC members would like to supervise, please email Fin
  • Secondary
    • Exam Week Mental Health Reach-out (second week of January)
    • Cocoa, “retreat”
      • Kristin Sesti to discuss financial support with ELHS Parent Council
      • ML Konett to discuss financial support with ELHS Parent Council
    • Excel “brain breaks” before exam week
      • Fin to discuss adding a Trojan Time at MMS
      • Kristin Sesti to discuss with ELHS admin adding an Excel at ELHS
      • The brain breaks could have a space (like the library) that includes:
        • Facility dogs for emotional regulation
        • Low, ambient music
        • Space to color/draw
        • A staff member to connect with if anxious
      • Staff to support at ELHS: Kristin Sesti
      • Staff to support at MMS: Fin to reach out to counseling staff
    • Affirmation Cards/ QR Codes with information for test anxiety
      • Gabbi and Leea to create different cards, share them with ELHS administration to get approval

7. New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

8. Announcements

Next Full Committee Meeting: December 11, 2023 630-8pm

9. Adjournment 8pm


Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda October 16, 2023

1. Call to Order (Fin)

    • Present: Gabriele Hodgkinson, Klaudia Burton, Diane Cox, Heidi D, Nyx Zoll, Leea Hawkins, Leo Kendall, Heather Mueller, Heather Findley (Fin), Quiana Davis, Kristin Sesti, Matt Morales, Jess Peatross, Kurt Scholler, Erin Parcell
    • Absent: Djinn Thompson, Gina Zerka, ML Konnet, Natalie Moser, Jim McEvoy

2. Approval of the meeting agenda (Fin)

  • A motion to approve the agenda was made by Erin Parcell and Heather Mueller Seconded.

3. Approval of the meeting minutes (Fin)

  • A motion was not completed as there were no minutes previously as this is the first meeting of the year

4. Welcome/ConnectionsandIntroductions(Group Discussion)

  • All participants shared their name, pronouns, role (student, parent, mental health provider, staff) and why they are engaging in the committee

5. Public Comment (If Applicable)

  • No public comment

6. MHAC Recap

  • Mental Health and Wellness in ELPS(Fin)
    • Fin explained the creation of the Office of Health and Safety
      • Matt Morales serves as the Director of Health and Safety
      • Heather Findley (Fin) as Mental Health Coordinator
      • Paul Shanks as the Behavior Systems Specialist
    • Fin reviewed makeup and purpose of committee
      • Fin explained how the committee was developed in response to tragic incidents.
        • Supportive efforts to make recommendations to District Administration
          • Fin and group talked about the importance of supporting all members of the learning community
          • Discussed the creation of Trojan Mental Health Matters website
          • Discussed advocating and supporting the adoption of Second Step and TRAILS

7. Agenda Topics

  • Reintroduction of MHAC and Goals
    • Supporting Board Goals
      • Nurturing the Whole Child
  • Successes over the last several years
  • SEL Professional Development Overview for 2023/2024
    • Fin mentioned the areas of focus for the year: Youth Mental Health First Aid overview, the Neurosequential Model in Education, Minority Stress and Mental Health, What happens after making a referral to an outpatient provider or inpatient treatment, and May as Mental Health Month
  • SEL Programming Implementation
    • Fin mentioned that TRAILS Tier I and Tier II are implemented at the High School and Middle Schools and that Second Step is being embedded into the elementary level
    • Heidi asked if there was a grant covering Second Step implementation after next year and Klaudia explained that Second Step implementation was meant only for elementary grade levels
      (K-5). The grant funding that was discussed in prior MHAC meetings were 31aa and 31n, which is being used to support mental programming in the district, as well as the hiring of new positions in the health and safety department.
  • participants selected which subcommittee they want to be in
    • Secondary Subcommittee
      • Leea Hawkins, Gabbi H, Nyx Z, Diane Cox, Kristin Sesti
    • Elementary Subcommittee
      • Leo Kendall
    • Staff Subcommittee
      • Heather Mueller, Erin Parcell, Jen Peatross
    • Community Subcommittee
      • Fin, Klaudia
    • Kurt S and Quiana Davis have decided which subcommittee he wants to be on
  • What are some possible goals for this year:
    • Re establishing the website- with a student, staff and community component
    • The Social Worker at the high school, Mrs. Sesti, will reach out to Leea, Nyx, Leo and Gabby about collaborating
    • There was a small discussion about having a mental health night, supporting the community around the anniversary of the MSU shooting, and creating activities or events during May for Mental Health Awareness Month

8. New Business/ Future Meeting Topics

  • Fin: Plan to have some whole group discussion at the beginning and end of the next MHAC meeting
  • Fin: Participants were asked to complete a sign out form that asked for areas of focus for future subcommittee meeting work.

9. Announcements

Next Full Committee Meeting: Monday, November 20th 6:30pm-8:00pm with in person at the HUB, and also available in zoom.

10. Adjournment at 7:32pm


Meeting Minutes 2022-23

Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Notes  
March 9, 2023 6:00 p.m. 
via Zoom


1. Call to Order at 6:03pm 

Meeting Participants

Dori Leyko
Gina Zerka
Quiana Davis
Djinn Thompson
Lindsay Young
Erin Parcell
Klaudia Burton
Elizabeth Allen
Natalie Moser
Kurt Scholler
Heidi Denning

2. Approval of Meeting Agenda

Djinn - 1st Approval 
Kurt - 2nd Approval 
Group Approved

3. Approval of Minutes 

Erin - 1st Approval 
Kurt - 2nd Approval 
Group Approved

4. Update of Current Mental Health Supports in District

Response to MSU Shooting

      • Overall response was positive
      • Talking points helped
      • Met with mental health staff in district to review response 

Second Step and TRAILS continue
Truancy Intervention Program and Ingham ISD support (31n) 
Newsletter Continues
Professional Development Continues
Incoming High School Groups - Grits, Glam and Gutz, as well as, CMH Group

5. 31aa Funding

We did receive this funding
The funding is good through the 23-24 school year
We have not been able to look at specific uses of this funding yet - still to come 
Group was asked to send Lindsay Young any of their ideas for this funding

6. Mental health month support for students during finals and a mental health series (including a fiar) next year.

Small things over the month of May
Holt was able to provide feedback on their event and said it went well but that they would make some changes for the future.
Looking for a group of individuals to help put a mental health series together for the 23-24 school year.
Stress Management tips/tricks
Help students focus on the “bigger picture” Techniques to anti-procrastination
Green Mental Health Bracelets Highlight importance of Sleep 
Highlight importance of social supports 
Normalizing Stress
Provide Study Skill Tips Organization Tips
Take a moment each day as a whole school to recognize mental health 
Green hearts in the hallways to write messages on
Wear Green
Wear inspirational or encouraging clothing Provide Mindfulness Skills
Positive Sticky Notes in Hallway

7. Anti-Bullying Curriculum/Additional SEL Extension Options

“Bullying” to often used that people tune out 
Feelings of being left out/culture building 
Catching the bullying before hand
Build coping skills early in students
Teacher training to identify these areas of concern Assessment for SEL Development
How to connect with others - Building a community
What is the research being done around post COVID-19 behaviors and socialization?

Shared Resources:

MoveMindfully 
Upstream Education 
LifeSkills
Good Behavior Game 
PATHS and Safe Dates

8. Adjournment at 7:19pm


Mental Health Advisory Committee Meeting Notes 
Feb. 6, 2023 6:00 p.m. 
via Zoom


  1. Meeting Participants
    Jenn Briere
    Mark FosterDori Leyko
    Gina Zerka 
    Jade Corse                           
    Terah Chambers
    Jim McEvoy
    Lindsay Young
    Erin Parcell 
    Klaudia Burton
    Elizabeth Allen
    Natalie Moser Kurt Scholler
    Heidi Denning

  2. Review of history of MHAC

  3. Recent events at ELHS - Safety across the District

  4. Current mental health and wellness offerings and opportunities within the district - acknowledgment statement of the psychological impact/effects on all members of our community

Develop a list of offerings and how to access them at each level Communicate to our stakeholders
Include: TRAILS, Student Advocates, Excel, Communities in Schools, additional School Social Workers, additional Counselors, CMH, Gus, Second Step

5. Topics for further discussion or development:

Mental Health Fair - one was recently held in Holt

Maybe end of day, multiple offerings and repeated a couple times Include food!
Find out what students would like to see or hear about Student Mental Health week?

31aa Mental Health Funds becoming available - $431,497 for ELPS Find the memo with allowable expenses here

6. Infusion of mental health resources

Stall stories, QR code to connect to resources for support

7. Continuation of Behavior Threat Assessment Training


Minutes of the Mental Health Advisory Committee of the 
East Lansing Board of Education
Zoom Virtual Meeting 
December 1, 2022


Opening of Meeting
The meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m.

Roll Call
Present: Lindsay Young, Kurt Scholler, Quiana “Q” Davis, Dori Leyko, Djinn Thompson, Heidi Mendez Denning, Jim McEvoy

Absent: Amy Martin, Elizabeth Allen, Erin Parcell, Gina Zerka. Jade Corse, Mark Foster, Natalie Moser, Klaudia Burton

Minutes
Lindsay Young and Dori Leyko provided an update on the Mental Health Advisory Committee’s (MHAC) outlook moving forward. Lindsay explained that a meeting was held between previous committee leaders, Kate Powers from the school board, Dori and herself to discuss how the MHAC can be utilized moving forward. Lindsay explained that there would be a couple of transitions happening due to the growth that this committee has made in the district and that she would be taking over leadership of the committee. The goal would be that the MHAC work in an advisory role to support needs as they arise. Dori then discussed the history of the MHAC and its impact on the district as a whole. Dori explained the need for ongoing support from the MHAC for future implementation or projects related to mental health. Jim McEvoy asked what the best form of communication to the district would be regarding mental health information between meetings. Dori and Lindsay explained that all community members are welcome to contact Lindsay with any information, questions or concerns around mental health in the district.

Lindsay then provided an update on the current mental health supports in the district. She explained the implementation and reboot of TRAILS and Second Step. The utilization of the mental health response team. Increased professional development around mental health and wellness. Bi-monthly wellness newsletters that go out to all families and staff in the district. Full time social work at all of the buildings in the district this year. The district partnered with the Cook Center for Human Connection on November 16th for a family mental health night. The district is working hard to grow connections with outside resources, such as; Lansing mental health providers, Community Mental health and Cedar Creek Hospital. The district is also working to support students’ basic needs by running a winter clothing drive and gift card drive for the holiday break.

Dori Leyko provided an update on the 97 and 31aa grants that the district applied for in regards to school safety and mental health. The district is still awaiting a response on the grants to see how much they will be given and then the hope is that through discussion with the MHAC and others we can create a plan to best support the district with the grant funds.

 Future Meetings
The next meeting will be held in the spring to provide an update to the MHAC. Lindsay Young will reach out to the group prior to the spring meeting if the expertise of the group is needed in processing through decisions around mental health for the district.

Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:25pm