DESSA Follow-up

Last month, we rallied as a student body for change from the school administration - the removal of the obligatory DESSA program and more effective mental health resources for students - and (drumroll please): they have delivered!

Twice in the past two months, Dr. Harrington met with myself and a small focus group of students to discuss student concerns with DESSA, including its unpopular star ratings, disconnected approach to mental health, and the fact that it takes away valuable time from flex time (see "The Issue with DESSA" in the April issue!). While the DESSA will not be removed entirely, it will be completely optional going forward. Students who have found the program beneficial will still be able to utilize it, and others will be able to use their flex time as they wish.

The school administration also hopes to continue to take steps towards positive mental health resources and awareness. Beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, the school will be implementing quarterly homework free weekends, similar to Memorial Day weekend just a few weeks ago. Further, the Wellness Day run by student government is likely to continue as an annual tradition. Dr. Harrington hopes to continue to meet with students in the fall to gain student input on issues like mental health, among other things. Students with feedback or concerns about school and its policies are welcome to reach out to Dr. Harrington and Mr. Comeau to share their opinions.

As a major part of our school's community, we, the students, should feel comfortable sharing our feedback. We may just be teenagers, but we have a voice and are capable of making change, and it seems the administration is prepared to welcome us with open arms.