**100th Episode Giveaway Entry Link**

In our 100th episode, Larissa and Jared Scott discuss student mental health, vulnerability, and how student voice is essential in school culture. Jared shares his journey from a shy student to a public speaker and counselor, highlighting the need for authentic connections between educators and students. They talk about the Culture Shift Tour, which helps students take ownership of their school culture and create lasting change through community involvement. The discussion also covers empowering students to voice their needs, the challenges educators face in understanding them, the disconnect between staff perceptions and student realities, the impact of social media on youth, and the anxiety around future planning. They stress the importance of balancing academic and emotional support in schools, turning challenges into growth opportunities, and sharing real stories of change to inspire action.

Resources:

www.jaredscottspeaks.com

The Importance of Engaging Student Voices in MTSS

Mental Health Webinar

SEL Guide

Schoolin' Around Instagram

Request a consultation

Takeaways:

• Vulnerability can foster connection and understanding.
• Authenticity in educators encourages student engagement.
• Students need to take ownership of their school culture.
• Real change requires consistent and persistent action.
• Community involvement is crucial for lasting change.
• Empowering students can lead to significant cultural shifts. and to identify their needs is crucial.
• Community buy-in enhances educational initiatives.
• Staff perceptions often differ from student realities.
• Social media contributes to youth identity crises.
• Students face anxiety about their future plans.
• Negative emotions can cloud students' vision for the future.
• Educators must balance academic and emotional support.
• Problems in education can lead to innovative solutions.
• Real change requires community and educator collaboration.

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Send feedback or inquiries to podcast@branchingminds.com!