With a new school year underway, educators, administrators, parents, businesses, community members and students are joining together and encouraging all residents to become Public Education Champions, advocating for policies and practices that uplift public education and support students’ academic and mental well-being.
“As educators, we see firsthand the challenges our students face, both in the classroom and beyond,” said CEA President Kate Dias. “The Education Champions campaign brings together our collective voices to ensure that the needs of public education are heard loud and clear. By partnering with parents, community leaders, and policymakers, we will advocate for policies that not only improve academic resources but also prioritize the mental well-being of our students. Together, we can uplift public education and create a brighter future for every child.”
The campaign addresses growing concerns about challenges facing students, particularly mental health issues. A back-to-school survey conducted by the Connecticut Education Association (CEA) found a growing number of behavioral changes in students that are not being addressed because there are not enough mental health supports in our schools.
Teachers responding to the survey report an increase in the number of behavioral changes in their students, including
· Increased stress and anxiety (89%)
· More distractions (83%)
· Increased aggression or dysregulated behavior (82%)
· Less concentration (82%)
· Increased absenteeism (70%)
· Increased depression or suicidal ideation (54%)
The biggest issues students face include
· Mental health issues, including anxiety, stress, suicide ideation, and more (identified by 77% of respondents)
· Family disruption or dysfunction (68%)
· Negative impacts from social media (68%)
· Lack of resources, including not enough teachers, counselors, staff, or supplies (49%)
Despite the growing need for mental health supports for students, 56% of all educators and 68% in urban districts say there are not enough resources to meet students’ mental health needs in their school buildings.
“As a high school teacher, I see every day how students’ mental wellness and academic success are deeply connected,” said Glastonbury Education Association President Kristen Basiaga. “When they have the right support, both emotionally and academically, they thrive. That’s why it’s so important for all of us to join the Education Champions campaign. By coming together, we can ensure that every student gets the resources they need to succeed in school and in life. This is our chance to make a real difference in their futures.”
“This is an important and timely initiative,” said Chris Davis, vice president of public policy for the Connecticut Business & Industry Association (CBIA). “We welcome the opportunity to join CEA and all partners to raise awareness and advocate for additional support to address this significant challenge.”
“The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents is committed to a robust partnership with CEA,” said CAPSS President and Newington Superintendent Dr. Maureen Brummet. “In fact, a top priority for CAPSS this year and beyond is elevating the teaching profession. I look forward to our continued collaboration with CEA on behalf of all of our hardworking educators in Connecticut.”
“Becoming an education champion brings all of us together—parents, educators, businesses, and the broader community—to advocate for stronger mental health supports and educational resources, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive,” added Dias.
The event was live streamed on CEA’s Facebook page – facebook.com/CTedassoc.
About the Public Education Champions Campaign The Public Education Champions Campaign is a coalition of parents, educators, businesses, and community members dedicated to advocating for policies and practices that provide the resources and support necessary to foster a healthy and successful learning environment for Connecticut children. Learn more at ctedchamps.org or text Champions to 48744.
