As the effects of COVID-19 are felt by Albertans and physical distancing measures are keeping us apart, the need for mental and emotional support may be what's bringing us together.

Managing disrupted routines and extra stress caused by the ever-changing landscape of our lives since COVID-19 arrived in our province, has left some Albertans struggling to cope and reaching out for support from others.

For students continuing their education at home the emotional and mental strain of assignments online and distance from teachers and peers has been met with help from educators and support staff here in the Foothills.

Foothills Composite High School / Alberta High School of Fine Arts, principal Vince Hunter says they recognize the emotional strain being away from school can cause for students and their families.

"A big part of normalcy for some of our kids is school, and friends, and peers, and teachers, and that disruption has certainly raised anxiety levels and stress within people's lives," said Hunter.

Hunter says teachers and support staff are using technology instead of the personal touch to engage students and families every week.

"We are working with families and kids trying to help put some supports into place and make plans of how we can all better facilitate our lives within this restricted world that we find ourselves in right now," said Hunter.

Although academic learning is a key part of a student's education Hunter says their main goal is to help prepare students for their futures, and he understands not all students are able to tackle the curriculum the same way, and flexibility is needed.

"As a school, we are so open to working with you. We recognize that for some families they can't manage the workload that is coming home, so let's modify that. Or maybe they need some more opportunity to speak to other people around the learning and we can set them up with that," said Hunter.

He encourages parents and students to reach out to the school for support of any kind.

"My loud voice just says 'pick up the phone and call us.' or send an email and then we can help and work together and make sure we get our kids to a good place," said Hunter.

Hunter says meeting in person is not an option but talking is and often a listening ear and a word of advice can help those needing support.

"You know we truly see and value and understand that there needs to be a focus on the mental wellness of our kids and their families first and foremost." expressed Hunter.

Hunter says the school is not just a place for academic support and he encourages parents and students to reach out for mental and emotional resources as often as they need to.

 

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