Mindful Moments
November, 2026
As November arrives, it brings meaningful opportunities to pause and reflect on our well-being. With the holiday season approaching, it's a good time to recognize the stress that can come with this busy time of year and make intentional space for our mental health. November also invites us to practice gratitude—a simple yet powerful habit that can shift our perspective, ease stress, and strengthen our overall well-being.
As we observe Veterans Day, we honor the courage, service, and sacrifices of those who have served our country. We are also reminded that support and appreciation extend beyond a single day. This month, let's focus on caring for ourselves, appreciating those around us, and creating a community where everyone feels valued and supported.
Staff Requirement: Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) Training
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Mental Health First Aid introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental illnesses, builds understanding of their impact, and overviews common supports. Strategies that teach how to offer initial help in a mental health crisis and connect persons to the appropriate professional, peer, social, and self-help care.
COURSE STRUCTURE:
It is a 6-hour course but usually you are able to complete 2-hours of pre-work/post-work on your own and then either do virtual or in-person training for 4 hours.
It is only until you complete the 4 hour training and also the 2-hour pre or post-2 work online that you are then issued your CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION.
Register for MHDD Hill Country Virtual Option HERE
As a reminder, HB 3 requires all staff to complete this training to help recognize and respond to the mental health needs of youth. Thank you to all who have completed YMHFA training!
For more information, contact Dr. Linda Rae Johnson at lindarae.johnson@hayscisd.net.
We’re excited to resume the Raising Highly Capable Kids (RHCK) program this fall at the following campuses:
This 13 week parenting series equips families with tools to build strong relationships, raise caring, responsible, and resilient kids, and foster a sense of community along the way. Register today to join us!
Tuesdays at Hemphill ES 3:30-5:00 pm (English Class)
Histórica escuela primaria Buda cada miercoles 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Escuela secundaria de Lehman HS cada jueves 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
If you have any questions, you can contact our RHCK coordinator, Rachel Maldonado, at Rachel.maldonado@hayscisd.net.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
We're all out here fighting battles no one else sees. A little compassion can change a life. If you or someone you love is struggling, call or text @988Lifeline anytime.
You are not alone. Help is always available.
💙 For more information, visit 988lifeline.org.
Hays CISD Employee Assistance Program
NAMI Central Texas
NAMI Central Texas offers free mental health resources, support, and education for individuals and families.
Hill Country Mental Health Development Disabilities Centers
Hill Country MHDD is the local mental health authority for Hays County, offering mental health, crisis, substance use, and developmental disability services and support for individuals and families.
Dr. Maritza Gonzalez, Director of Guidance and Counseling and CCR
Dr. LindaRae Johnson, CSC, LMFT, LPC-Associate, District Mental Health Professional
Rachel Maldonado, LCSW, District Mental Health Professional
Rena Bertelson, LMSW, District Mental Health Professional
Jennifer Leija, Community Resource Specialist, Johnson High School
Jennifer Narvaiz, Community Resource Specialist, Hemphill Elementary School
Iris Velasquez, Community Resource Specialist, Wallace Middle School
Stay Connected
Mental Health Team Contact:
Rena Bertelson, LMSW
Phone: 512-268-2141 X 45171