The mental health crisis in our country cannot be overlooked any longer. Depression, suicide, extreme behaviors, and criminal activity are results of what's going on inside minds and hearts. Children are struggling to find value in themselves and others, and as a result we are seeing a rise in bullying, gender confusion, behavior problems, poor grades, and a disconnect from life.

 

Our school counselling program needs to offer hope to our kids. Instead of being taught to respect pronouns, kids should be learning to love the body they were born with. Instead of excusing behaviors, kids should be taught how to work through difficult situations. Instead of teaching controversial ideas, counsellors should be teaching kids to find value in those around them. And all this needs to be done with communication and input from parents.

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Our counsellors, teachers, and staff deserve support and clear direction from administration and the school board. As a board member, I will advocate for a counselling program that focuses on the value of each individual and gives hope; a program that intentionally works with parents, not against them; a program with expectations, not excuses.