October 21, 2024
Why
Important Dates
Tuesday, Oct 22:
PTSA General Meeting, 7pm @ DMHS Rm 1 or Zoom (link to follow)
Thursday, Oct 24:
Football vs. Overfelt @ DMHS Bowl,
4:30pm, JV; 7:00pm, Varsity
Principal's Message
Dear Students and Families,
October is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we are committed to providing a supportive environment for our students' well-being. I want to emphasize the critical connection between student well-being and academic success. When students feel mentally and emotionally supported, they are far more likely to engage in their studies, form strong relationships, and thrive in all areas of life. Research consistently shows that promoting mental health in schools is a key driver of student achievement.
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Mental Health Awareness at Del Mar
Research consistently shows that promoting mental health in schools is a key driver of student achievement. According to the American Psychological Association, students who experience lower levels of stress and anxiety are better equipped to concentrate, retain information, and perform academically. Studies also suggest that a positive school climate, one where students feel safe, supported, and connected, can lead to improved attendance, higher test scores, and even graduation rates. Ensuring students' mental health needs are addressed is fundamental to unlocking their full potential.
At Del Mar, we take pride in fostering an environment where students feel safe and supported, and we are actively working to provide resources that help students manage stress and build resilience. Here are some of the mental health resources and events happening at our school:
- Wellness Center Referrals: If you believe your student would benefit from additional support, you can refer them to our Wellness Center using this form: DMHS Wellness Center/COST Referral Form.
- Crisis Support After Hours: For urgent mental health needs outside school hours, you can contact:
- Pacific Clinics 24/7 Mobile Crisis Line: 408-379-9085
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- 911, or visit your nearest emergency room.
Additionally, Santa Clara County offers a Navigator Program, designed to connect individuals and families to mental health resources and guide them through the behavioral health system, ensuring that everyone can access the support they need.
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Get Involved!
Red Ribbon Week: Promoting Healthy Choices
Next week, we will celebrate Red Ribbon Week, a nationwide initiative to promote drug-free living and raise awareness about substance use prevention. As part of this campaign, we will be hosting an event on Wednesday, October 23rd during lunch in the quad, where students can learn from a variety of community programs:
- Pacific Clinics Addiction Prevention Services
- Q Corner’s Harm ReduQion Program
- SCC BH Prevention Program
- TUPE (Tobacco Use Prevention Education)
Encouraging students to make healthy choices—both for their bodies and their minds—is an essential part of our mission at Del Mar.
TUPE Parent Education Nights
We are also excited to share that the Santa Clara County Office of Education is hosting TUPE Parent Education Nights to help parents learn how to talk to their teens about vaping, cannabis, and tobacco. Available in both English and Spanish, these sessions will give you practical tools to keep your family safe and informed.
- Thursday, October 24 | 6-7:30 PM
Location: 1290 Ridder Park, San Jose, CA 95131
(English: Oak Grove Room | Spanish: Milpitas Room)
Register here
- Tuesday, October 29 | 6-7:30 PM
Location: South County Annex, Gilroy, CA 95020
(English: Conference Room | Spanish: Multi-Purpose Room)
Register here
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Looking Ahead
The relationship between mental health and academic performance is well-documented. A study published by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) found that students who struggle with mental health issues are more likely to experience absenteeism and lower grades. Conversely, when schools invest in mental health programs and foster a supportive environment, students show significant improvements in engagement, behavior, and academic performance . At Del Mar, were that all students have the support they need to succeed.
Our school is committed to the mental and emotional health of every student, knowing that it is foundational to their success both in and out of the classroom. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if your family needs support, and thank you for being part of our caring Del Mar community.
Diana Nguyen
Principal
Del Mar High School |
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