June 2026

As the school year comes to a close, summer provides an opportunity for students and staff to rest, recharge, and focus on their well-being. While summer is often associated with fun and relaxation, it is also important to recognize that maintaining good mental health requires intentional care throughout the break.

For students, summer can be a time to explore interests, spend time with family and friends, and participate in activities that bring joy. Maintaining a healthy routine, including regular sleep, physical activity, and balanced nutrition, can help support both emotional and physical wellness. Staying connected with supportive people, limiting excessive screen time, and making time for hobbies or outdoor activities can also have a positive impact on mental health.

For educators and staff, summer offers a well-deserved chance to step away from daily responsibilities and focus on personal wellness. Taking time to relax, engage in enjoyable activities, set healthy boundaries, and reconnect with family and friends can help restore energy and reduce stress. Whether through travel, exercise, reading, volunteering, or simply enjoying a slower pace, investing in self-care is essential.

Mental health is just as important during the summer months as it is during the school year. Everyone experiences challenges differently, and seeking support when needed is a sign of strength. If feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness, or isolation become overwhelming, reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, counselor, or mental health professional can make a difference.

As we head into summer, let us all remember that wellness is not a destination but an ongoing journey. By making time for rest, connection, and activities that bring us purpose and happiness, we can return in the fall refreshed, resilient, and ready for new opportunities.

Have a safe, healthy, and enjoyable summer!

Ms. Melissa McLaughlin, JFA: "Working in the garden instantly boosts my mood and reduces stress. It’s my time to decompress and get away from all noise."

As we approach summer break, we are excited to offer a valuable learning opportunity for our families in partnership with Effective School Solutions.

Maintaining Children's Mental Health Over the Summer
Tuesday, June 9 5:00 PM
Virtual via Microsoft Teams

This workshop will explore practical strategies for nurturing children's mental health during the summer months. Caregivers will learn ways to maintain healthy routines, engage children in meaningful activities, build resilience, and create supportive environments that promote emotional well-being.

Microsoft Teams Meeting Information
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/28498445331549?p=LpVGNY6GpGO0uva65S

Meeting ID: 284 984 453 315 49
Passcode: fe9Ax9Kj

Thank you for helping us support the mental health and well-being of our students and families throughout the summer.

This spring, students in Mrs. Tortella’s Life Skills class took on a special project to beautify the playground and parking lot areas at Salem Middle School. Over the course of several weeks, students worked in stages, dedicating a few hours each week to cleaning and improving the outdoor spaces that students, staff, and visitors use every day.

Mrs. Tortella shared that the project was completed entirely by her class and was designed to help students develop a sense of pride and responsibility for their school community. “We would spend a couple hours a week over a few weeks, trying to get the kids to buy into taking care of their community,” she explained.

The project reflects Salem City School District’s commitment to fostering safe, healthy, and inclusive schools. By improving the playground and parking lot areas, students helped create a more welcoming environment while learning valuable life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, perseverance, and community stewardship.

We are proud of Mrs. Tortella and her students for their hard work and dedication. Their efforts have made a visible difference at Salem Middle School and serve as a reminder that every student has the ability to positively impact their school and community.

School Based Youth Services remain open this summer. For more information or for mental health resources, click here.