Wellness and Prevention Connection

As the school year winds down, May brings a mix of excitement, transition, and, at times, increased vulnerability for students and staff alike. Loss of routine, reduced access to supports, and big life transitions can all impact well-being.

This month’s focus is simple: How do we help students (and ourselves) move into summer feeling safe, supported, and connected?

Many students rely on school for structure, connection, and emotional support. As summer approaches, it’s important to help them think ahead.

Quick Wins for Staff:

• Ask: “What are you looking forward to this summer?” AND “What might feel challenging?”

• Help students identify at least one safe adult they can reach out to over the summer

• Encourage students to create a simple daily routine (sleep, meals, activity, connection)

Try This Tomorrow:

Have students complete a quick “Summer Plan”:

• One thing I’m excited about: ______

• One thing I’ll do if I feel stressed: ______

• A person I can talk to: ______

For some students, summer can increase isolation or risk.

Watch for:

• Sudden withdrawal or disengagement

• Expressions of hopelessness or fear about summer

• Increased anxiety about being away from school supports

What to Say:

• “I’m glad you told me. Let’s make a plan so you have support even when school is out.”

Key Reminder:

If you have concerns about a student’s safety, follow your building/district protocols before the school year ends.

With more free time comes increased screen use and potential risks.

What Students Need to Hear:

• Think before sharing personal information

• It’s okay to block/report harmful behavior

• What you see online can affect how you feel. Take breaks!

What Families Need (Keep It Simple):

• Set clear expectations for screen time

• Keep devices in shared spaces when possible

• Encourage open, judgment-free conversations

May is not the time for long emails or overwhelming resource lists.

What Works:

• Short, clear communication

• Highlight 2–3 key resources (not 20)

• Use simple language: “Here are a few ways to support your child this summer…”

Consider Sharing:

• Local food access sites

• Community programs/camps

• Crisis and mental health supports

End-of-year fatigue is real. Supporting students is important, but so is taking care of yourself.

Signs You Might Be Burned Out:

• Exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest

• Feeling detached or less effective

• Irritability or low motivation

Micro-Strategies (That Actually Fit in May):

• Lower the bar for “perfect”

• Build in small resets (even 3–5 minutes)

• Name one “non-negotiable” boundary before summer

Try This:

Before the last day, write down:

• One thing that went well this year

• One thing you’re leaving behind

Whether students are moving grades, changing buildings, or graduating, transitions can bring both excitement and stress.

Support Ideas:

• Normalize mixed emotions (“It’s okay to feel excited and nervous”)

• Help students reflect on growth

• Offer closure. Especially for students you’re concerned about