UGDSB introduces new Grade 7, 8 mental health literacy modules

GUELPH – The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) will be delivering modules to Grade 7 and 8 students to enhance mental health literacy.

Earlier this year, the Ministry of Education introduced a series of modules to support the existing mental health literacy expectations within the Grades 7 and 8 health and physical education curriculum.

It is important to note that this is not new learning; this is a way to enhance the delivery of the existing curriculum and focus on mental health literacy.

The series includes three 40-minute modules per grade.

The goal of this learning is to help equip students with inclusive, culturally responsive, evidence-informed knowledge, skills, and strategies to support their mental health and well-being.

The modules were created after extensive consultation with parents/caregivers, students, cultural and community organizations.

There are important reasons to bring these modules into the classroom, including:

- supporting student’s desire to learn more about mental health at school;

- helping students develop skills that support positive mental health; and

-  encourage conversations and help students in need reach support.

Mental health learning supports learning in all other areas.

The UGDSB will provide training for all Grade 7 and 8 health and physical education staff.

It will also provide information about this initiative for parents/caregivers in multiple languages.

The UGDSB will be collecting outcome data on student learning and knowledge increase.

For more information, in video format, visit vimeo.com.