Student Wellness at DMS

Student wellness in middle school goes beyond just physical health. It encompasses a whole-child approach that supports their social, emotional, and physical well-being. Here's a quick snapshot:

• Social-emotional learning (SEL): Teaches students skills like managing emotions, resolving conflicts, and building healthy relationships. This can help them navigate the social pressures of middle school.

• Mental health support: May include counselors, therapists, or peer support groups to address anxiety, depression,or other challenges students might face.

• Physical health: Might involve promoting healthy eating habits, getting enough sleep, and providing opportunities for physical activity during the school day.

• Safe spaces: Schools might create designated areas where students can relax, de-stress, and access resources for getting help.

• Overall focus: Aims to create a supportive environment where students feel safe, respected, and empowered to learn and grow.

At DMS we offer the following supports in the area of Student Wellness:

• Wellness Center - the DMS Wellness Center offers a safe space where students can check-in with a Mental Health professional so they can learn coping skills, take a wellness break or if they need a safe person to talk to.  Services offered are art therapy, crisis intervention, mental health resources and emotional support.

• SEL Curriculum - DMS teaches the Second Step SEL curriculum in our Eagle Time.  These lessons, taught every other Friday, help students build social-emotional skills—like nurturing positive relationships, managing emotions, and meeting goals—so they can thrive in school and in life.

• Counseling Services: Academic counselors are available to assist students with personal development.

• Mental Health Services:  Mental Health Therapists are available to assist student who need support and counseling, and also staff our Wellness Center.