Middle School Mental Wellness

At Pace Academy, we are dedicated to nurturing students’ growth through comprehensive mental wellness programs. We provide students with the tools they need to thrive at Pace and beyond through innovative, proactive and evidence-based mental wellness programs.

Our approach to mental wellness provides guidance and support for the entire Middle School community. We believe that for students to thrive, they need support from empowered faculty, informed families and a well-structured environment. Our programs build progressively, ensuring students receive continuous support throughout their Middle School years.  

FOR PACE STUDENTS, WE PROVIDE…

• Character Education: Our Middle School Character Education program is inspired by the VIA Institute on Character’s 24 Character Strengths.  Throughout the year, students discover their unique character strengths and learn how those strengths enrich the broader school community. The program is incorporated into daily activities such as morning assemblies, advisory groups and classroom discussions. We also engage parents and caregivers in these conversations to support continued growth at home.   

• Individual and Group Counseling: Our counselors provide individual and small-group counseling to address personal, social and academic concerns. Students can schedule appointments directly, and deans, teachers and parents are encouraged to make referrals. Additionally, our counselors work closely with the Academic Resource Center to provide targeted support as needed.

• Classroom Lessons: Our counselors regularly visit classrooms to deliver lessons aimed at developing key social and emotional skills as part of our Discovery program.  

• Mentoring Program: Middle School students benefit from mentorship through the Pace Academy Student Support (PASS) Program. Upper School students meet monthly with their Middle School groups to talk about issues related to stress management, healthy decision making and navigating adolescent challenges. 

• Wellness Council: Our student-run Wellness Council is dedicated to promoting the well-being of the Middle School community. The club empowers students to take an active role in fostering a positive and supportive environment through various initiatives and events.

• Digital Citizenship: Our students learn positive digital citizenship through our partnership with The Social Institute. Students participate in interactive lessons around healthy and responsible use of social media and technology.

FOR PACE PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS, WE PROVIDE… 

• Parent Workshops: Our counseling team hosts workshops and events on mental wellness topics, offering practical strategies and insights for supporting your child’s development.

• Parent Book Club: In partnership with the Pace Parenting Connection, Middle School families are invited to participate in book club discussions designed to engage parents in ongoing learning and conversation. 

• Individual Support: Counselors are available to offer personalized guidance and support to parents and families, including recommendations for outpatient counseling resources when needed. Our counselors serve as the bridge between the school and external providers, ensuring a cohesive support system. 

• Online Resources: Additional resources for current Pace parents are available via Parenting Connection.

FOR PACE FACULTY AND STAFF, WE PROVIDE: 

• Classroom Support: Counselors work closely with teachers to provide guidance and support tailored to students’ needs, both in and out of the classroom.

• Professional Development: We offer ongoing professional development opportunities for faculty and staff to ensure that they are well-equipped to effectively support students' emotional and developmental needs.