An innovative whole-schools approach in Durham Public Schools addressing mental health as the essential foundation for learning for everyone.

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Transforming Durham Public Schools into W.H.O.L.E. Schools

The essential foundation for learning is that everyone in the whole school feels they are safe, supported, and belong. The WHOLE Schools approach will transform schools to be a holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive support system for everyone. Here’s how:

  • Wellness involves nurturing the mental, emotional, and physical health of students, educators, and staff. This approach emphasizes environments where holistic well-being is prioritized, with a focus on integrating mental health support, encouraging self-care practices, and fostering a culture that promotes overall health and balance.

  • Healing addresses the trauma and stress that many have faced, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on building resilience and providing a supportive environment where recovery can take place. The goal is to create spaces where individuals can work through their challenges with the help of a compassionate community, promoting emotional safety and recovery for all.

  • Opportunity ensures that all members of the school community have equitable access to resources and support. It aims to remove barriers and provide a path to thriving for everyone, particularly for marginalized groups.

  • Learning is the core mission of any school, but in the context of WHOLE Schools, it goes beyond academics. It’s about creating a joyful and inclusive learning environment where every student feels safe, supported, and engaged.

  • Equity focuses on creating effective and supportive environments for historically marginalized students who are at greater risk for mental health challenges, including LGBTQIA+ students, English Language Learners, neurodivergent and disabled students. The WHOLE Schools Movement is committed to addressing these disparities by ensuring that mental health and wellness resources are accessible, culturally affirming, and tailored to the unique needs of each student.

Developing transformative approaches while meeting urgent needs now.

 

WHOLE Schools is a community partnership

WHOLE Schools is led by a partnership among DPS Foundation, Durham Public Schools and Duke University/Duke Health. These partners lead planning, fundraising and implementation to promote healing, advance equity and accelerate learning.