Genesee Intermediate School District to host 2nd annual Mental Health Symposium

FLINT, Michigan — The Genesee Intermediate School District (GISD), in collaboration with Genesee Health System and local school districts, is set to host its 2nd annual Mental Health Symposium on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, at the Genesys Conference and Banquet Center in Grand Blanc, MI.

Titled ‘The Science and Power of Hope 2.0 – Identifying Signs of Mental Illness,’ this year’s symposium is designed to bring together educators, parents, mental health professionals, and the community to discuss the growing need for mental health support systems for students and families.

The event will feature two sessions. The first session, scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., is primarily for school staff while the second session, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., will cater to parents, mental health professionals, and school staff unable to attend the earlier session. 

By hosting this event for the second consecutive year, GISD aims to build on last year’s success by continuing the conversation and introducing new strategies to support mental health in schools and the wider community. 

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Angela Pharris

One of the highlights of this year’s symposium will be a keynote address from Angela Pharris, Ph.D., MSW. Dr. Pharris is an assistant professor at the Anne & Henry Zarrow School of Social Work at the University of Oklahoma and serves as the Director of the Center for Child Welfare Training. She is also a Senior Research Fellow at the Hope Research Center.

Dr. Pharris’ keynote will delve into the positive impact hope can have on mental health, providing evidence-based strategies for creating environments where students feel supported and valued.

According to Dr. Pharris, fostering hope can help individuals manage stress and trauma which is particularly crucial for students facing mental health challenges.

Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into how schools and communities can create a more supportive atmosphere for students by promoting a sense of hope and optimism.

GISD’s Commitment to Mental Health

Addressing student mental health has been a central focus for GISD and the symposium serves as a continuation of the district’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and improve mental health services.

Dr. Steven Tunnicliff, Superintendent of GISD, emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to tackling mental health issues in schools.

“We realize that there is no single solution to mental health challenges, but through various proactive programming, greater awareness, and effective partnerships, we can create a safer space for students and families,” said Dr. Tunnicliff in a recent statement.

He added that the symposium provides a platform for educators and community members to engage in meaningful conversations about the mental health needs of students and learn practical strategies to support them.

Topics and Sessions

In addition to Dr. Pharris’ keynote, the symposium will feature sessions on a wide range of topics related to student mental health, including:
 

• Student mental health and well-being
• Stress management and coping strategies
• Trauma-informed practices
• Mental health support for staff
• Promoting a positive school culture
• Parent and community engagement in mental health

These sessions are designed to provide attendees with tools and techniques to better understand and address the mental health needs of students as well as strategies for fostering a supportive and nurturing school environment.

Registration Information

Those interested in attending the symposium are encouraged to register for either Session 1 (8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.) or Session 2 (4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.) by the deadline of Friday, Oct. 4, 2024. 

For more information about the Genesee Intermediate School District, visit: geneseeisd.org or call: (810) 591-4400.