Delaware Academy (DA) Central School District held the first of a guest speaker series this month, with former NFL athletes Ken Bartolo and Robert Drummond, and singer Jared Campbell. They spoke to students and community members on topics including substance misuse, overcoming obstacles, anti-bullying, respect and leadership.
The first event of the series was held Nov. 15; the second portion is scheduled for March 15.
Coming out of COVID-19, the district noticed an increase in the number of students with mental health struggles, Alex Chase, guidance counselor, said. Mental health and personal well-being became a priority that needed to be addressed in order for students to have academic success, he said.
The A.L. Kellogg Foundation provided financial support to host the speaker series.
Chase said after listening to students after the event, they had a lot to share about how the series impacted them and what they learned.
Students had several key takeaways including: opening up is the first step in fighting mental illness; you cannot pour out love into others, until you love yourself first; no matter the issue make sure you reach out; there are so many people that are willing to lend a helping hand, and even if you make a mistake there will be another chance.
The district looks forward to hosting its next speaker, John Halligan, March 15, to discuss anti-bullying with its middle school and high school students. There will also be another community event in the evening for families and community members.
For more information visit delhischools.org.
