NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – New York City officials on Wednesday unveiled a mental health initiative to help students' emotional wellbeing as they return to school amid the coronavirus outbreak.
At his daily briefing, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the "Bridge to School" plan, a citywide strategy to help children learn and cope.
The plan includes curriculum for students and training for teachers and principals as well as resources for both in-person and remote learning.
"We have to address the mental health needs of our school community, starting with kids," de Blasio said.
First lady Chirlane McCray said the plan expands on a program introduced last year. Students will learn coping skills and how to process grief, she said.
"On the first day of school, our students will be carrying more than the usual weight of their backpacks," McCray said. "They'll be carrying the weight of a myriad of emotions experienced over the last six months."
McCray said students may feel lonely or afraid of getting sick or may be angry or afraid about not having their usual school activities. They may also be worried if their family has a stable place to live or if they'll have enough money to buy necessities.
She said the plan includes "guided language activities and community building exercises to support our student's mental health in the first days of school."
Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza said the city's 1,600 principals started training this summer and that training will be expanded to all staff as the school year begins.
"I know that students are much more likely to learn and feel safe and rebound from tough blows when they feel connected to their teachers and their peers. Supporting students socially and emotionally improves not only their academic progress, but prepares them to succeed in life," Carranza said.
