Open Parachute’s High School ‘Student-Led Initiatives’ can be found in the High School Community Building Program. Learn more about the Program in the Help Article here.
These student-led projects are intended to be facilitated by a teacher mentor, but largely planned and carried out by the students (planning templates are provided in each lesson). You can let your students choose the project that suits them, or you can assign a project for them to work on. Working on these projects can be facilitated in or out of classroom time, depending on the school schedule and what works for teachers and students.
These projects are intended to be open-ended. The suggestion is that you roll out the project over a significant amount of time so students have the opportunity to research, reach out to community members, collaborate, etc. (1-2 months, for example), and then plan a week to celebrate and/or showcase the work, or create presentation time slots. The presentation style is up to you (based on the project you/they choose).
These initiatives invite students to explore and share their mental health journeys creatively through various projects and media presentations, including but not limited to art, music, poetry, or any medium that resonates with them or their school environment.
What Projects Are Covered In The High School Student-Led Initiatives?
The following projects are available within the High School Community Building Program:
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This initiative empowers students to lead discussions on Mental Health topics such as peer challenges, self-care, and overcoming adversity. The podcast series serves as an accessible resource to inform and support the school community on Mental Health topics.
This initiative pairs students in older year groups with younger students in need of support, providing a valuable resource for navigating secondary school challenges.
Incorporate a short mental health segment into weekly or monthly student announcements.
Host an open house or ‘science fair’ style event where students can visit booths or stations focused on different aspects of mental health and well-being that are being used in the school.
Students work individually or in groups to create a project that demonstrates what equity, respect, and belonging look like within the school, community, and their personal lives.
This project aims to raise awareness about mental health in the school community. It is a chance for staff and students to learn about mental health through the stories of the students (and staff) who make up this unique community.
Students create short videos to educate teachers, staff, and parents about the mental health challenges that teens face. They will specifically focus on misunderstandings or areas where adults may “miss the mark” in comprehending their issues.