In this powerful episode, three voices from different stages of the educational journey come together to talk about mental health in our schools. Host Sophia James, a 2024 PDK Emerging Leader Fellow and Director of Education and Social Work Pathways for NYC Public Schools, is joined by Samantha Salnave, Senior Director of Tiered Interventions at the NYC Department of Education and a 2024 PDK Distinguished Educator Fellow, along with Lily, a college student and 2024 Educators Rising Fellow.

Together, they reflect on:• The growing impact of social media, trauma, and academic pressure on students• How teacher stress and emotional labor are affecting classroom dynamics• The importance of building school cultures of care, affirmation, and intentional mental health support• Real-life stories of support, mentorship, and meaningful student-teacher relationships• Innovative solutions like Zen Dens, Buddha Booths, counselor check-ins, and SEL-infused career pathways

Whether you’re a school leader, classroom teacher, parent, or student, this episode offers both honesty and hope—reminding us that we all play a part in creating healthy, resilient learning communities.

The PDK Emerging Leaders Fellows and Distinguished Educators Fellows programs provide support and development for distinguished PDK members. To learn more, visit our website at PDKINTL.org.

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