Dover High School focuses on mental health

Dover High School students and staff had another lesson plan Friday focused on mental health.

The school held a “reset day” for students and staff, canceling classes to focus on mental health.

Principal Peter Driscoll said: “As a school, this is one of the many initiatives we are undertaking to support the mental health of our students.”

The day was run by 80 community volunteers to give teachers and students a break.

Chemistry teacher Sarah McCarron-Stewart said: “We wanted to acknowledge burnout in both students and teachers.''

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Friday was the day after the first semester and the day before the second semester.

“I feel a sense of gratitude, a sigh of relief, and happiness,” junior Samantha Rangel said.

The students at the school say they appreciate being able to use this day as a reset.

“Especially at our age, it's very difficult to identify what you're feeling and how to overcome it,” junior Regan Gilmore said.

On this day, there were many important lessons that were not included in the curriculum. All students and teachers had the opportunity to explore their physical, mental, emotional and social health and learn how to maintain and manage their health.

“Everyone is so different, so we tried to cover all the bases so everyone can find something that's right for them outside of their cell phone,” Gilmore said.

The 30-minute meeting reviewed resources available inside and outside the school. Officials say this will help teachers find new ways to connect with students and help students and faculty members use what they've learned to become more aware of what they need to take care of themselves. He said he was looking forward to it.

“I think the takeaway from Reset Day is that mental health is important,” Rangel said.

School officials said they plan to continue the event and hope that other school districts will have Reset Days at their schools.