The Ministry of Education and Child Care's fifth Mental Health in Schools Conference was held in Vancouver this past week. The conference brought together district and school Principals and Vice-Principals from all  across the province, as well as teachers, counsellors, clinicians, researchers, and advocates committed to the well-being of young people and the adults who support them. It was a powerful reminder that in education, mental health is not a side conversation – it is foundational to learning, connection, and thriving communities.

I chatted with leaders from across the province, and they shared the incredible work that is happening in their schools in support of student and staff mental health. Many districts are hosting wellness fairs, inviting families and local mental health partners to share strategies and supports, intentionally embedding language around well-being into early learning programs, and sending out daily life strategies for positive mental health including the ‘take 5 to thrive’ approach: 

Other districts are focusing on daily well-being practices – morning mindfulness, movement breaks, check-in circles, and quiet spaces that give students tools to self-regulate and reflect. And, in many communities, schools are collaborating with Indigenous leaders, cultural organizations, and youth workers to provide holistic, identity-affirming support.

In the middle of it all, we know that this time of year can be tough. The spring stretch can feel long as our energy dips, tempers shorten, and the weight of “everything left to do” can sit heavily. Principals and Vice-Principals tell us they are seeing signs of depletion in both students and staff, and that they are feeling it too. It is a time when leadership often means holding space for emotion, for exhaustion, and for the real-life challenges that walk through our office and school doors every day.

But there is something else I have seen in schools across BC: hope. 

I have been inspired when arriving at a school to see the Principal or Vice-Principal outside chatting with students and families, recounting a recent basketball game, swim meet, hockey game, or another aspect of their life. I have seen administrator teams enjoying their work together, and providing strong support to each other. It is that sense of connection that matters, and now is the time we are digging deeply to achieve those relational moments. It is important for leaders to continue daily and regular connections with staff, providing positive energy and support even when you might feel your own energy dipping low. In this work of connecting and engaging, the message to students, staff, and community that, “you are not alone”, is crucial.

As we move toward the final stretch of the school year, let’s remember that wellness is not a destination – it is a daily practice built on connection, care, and community. Let’s continue to talk openly about mental health, to share what is working, and to lift one another up.

Thank you for bringing the heart, the joy, and the vibrant energy to your school and district roles, and for being the steady presence that so many need.

You matter. Your work matters. And you are not alone.