May marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Month, a movement developed to promote advocacy and eliminate stigma. Established by Mental Health America (MHA), it is crucial to recognize within our education systems.

According to a 2023 report from MHA, more than 1 in 10 youths in the U.S. are experiencing depression that is severely impairing their ability to function at school or work, at home, with family, or in their social life. Additionally, 60% of youths with major depression do not receive any mental health treatment.

Early identification and accessible resources can significantly lower these statistics.

Families of PA Distance Charter School students in Elkland (Tioga County) and Galeton (Potter County) have come together to form their own community. They visit each other, get involved with the school, and provide feedback regarding their child’s educational experience.

PA Distance Learning Charter School has teamed up with two state community colleges to create an amazing opportunity for students. With the help of Luzerne County Community College and Lackawanna College, high schoolers are able to earn credits through the Dual Credit and Dual Enrollment programs.

Our Community Engagement (CE) Team at PA Distance Learning Charter School can often be found traveling across Pennsylvania to hold educational teacher-led field trips and help sessions. Members also organize special events to empower and engage students and families throughout the school year.

Throughout this week, we recognize the importance of School Choice, or the ability of every family to decide the educational option that is best for their child. While some children may succeed in an in-person classroom, others might benefit from a magnet, charter, online, private, or home learning environment.

As a reminder in the new year, we are here to help you navigate your role as a PA Distance parent/guardian every step of the way. However, we want you to know that parents/guardians of PA Distance students are expected to be involved in student academic progress as a facilitator, not a teacher.