At UPrep, a 6–12 private school in Seattle’s Wedgwood neighborhood, student wellness is central to its academic program. Each of its 705 students benefit from a robust student support program.
Students have easy access to mental health support. Each grade is paired with a counselor who supports them throughout their UPrep years, fostering lasting relationships. “Navigating social scenarios and stress during adolescence can be difficult,” says UPrep Counselor Andrea Moore. “Our goal is to provide guidance and promote growth by increasing coping skills.”
Three full-time counselors proactively cultivate a safe, caring learning environment. They offer confidential counseling, consult with faculty and administration on student support strategies, and assist students and families in navigating developmental and emotional challenges. Additionally, they provide educational programs on social and emotional issues, suicide prevention, and substance abuse prevention.
The Advisory Program fosters mentorship. In middle school, students belong to small advisories led by an adult adviser that meet at least weekly. In high school, students transition to new advisories with dedicated advisers who serve as mentors for academic and personal growth. Advisers are also the primary communication link between school and home.
“My advisory fostered a sense of community,” says alum Cameron Swope. “My adviser was very good at listening, and I always left feeling calmer.”
To strengthen family support, UPrep’s Parent Guardian Association collaborates with counselors to organize the Parent Guardian Education Series, which features experts who address adolescent development. Recent speakers include Dr. Nicole McNichols, who teaches the University of Washington’s most popular class, Diversity of Human Sexuality, and Dr. Lisa Damour, the author of The Emotional Lives of Teenagers.
High schoolers can join the Mental Health Advisory Board, a student club advised by the counselors that facilitates peer support. For example, members lead yearly suicide prevention presentations. Recently, the club led a program on transitioning to college and accessing campus mental health services.
Nava R., a 12th-grade student and board executive, has learned about the positive impact of small actions. “We made snack packs with uplifting notes for finals week,” she says, noting that being part of the club has boosted her confidence in helping others.
Counselor Cindy Taketa appreciates that UPrep teaches students about comprehensive wellness. “Students pick up healthy coping skills,” she says. “They are savvy and informed about mental health issues and social and emotional well-being.”
link