Five Ways Pacific Preparatory Supports Student Mental Health
At Pacific Preparatory, we believe that emotional well-being is essential to academic success. Our relationship-based, 1:1 model allows us to see and support the whole student - because when students feel safe, heard, and connected, they learn better.
This May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so we’re reaffirming our commitment to a holistic approach to education. Recent research from the Journal of the American Medical Association and the CDC continues to reveal troubling trends: rates of anxiety and depression among adolescents have doubled since the pandemic, and many students still struggle to reengage in school. These challenges demand more than just academic intervention - they require learning environments that nurture trust, belonging, and adaptability.
Here’s how Pacific Preparatory intentionally supports student mental health every day:
1. Teachers who notice - and respond - with care
In our 1:1 model, teachers truly get to know each student. That close relationship makes it easier to spot when something feels off—like low energy, irritability, or withdrawal - and respond with empathy. Teachers can adjust the day’s lesson on the spot, offer space to talk, or shift to a lower-stress activity. This kind of attunement builds trust and gives students permission to show up as they are.
2. Coordination with mental health professionals
Many of our students are already working with therapists, educational psychologists, or other supportive professionals. We collaborate directly with these professionals - at the family’s request - to align support holistically. Whether that means integrating therapeutic strategies into the school day or adapting the pace of instruction, we ensure academic goals never come at the expense of emotional well-being.
3. Personalized social-emotional learning (SEL)
Our teachers weave SEL organically into academic instruction. Whether through literature discussions, science debates, or executive function skill-building, students build self-awareness, emotional regulation, resilience, and communication skills. In addition, our advisory sessions provide a consistent space for students to reflect, connect, and develop core skills for managing stress, setting goals, and navigating challenges. Because of our 1:1 format, SEL is never one-size-fits-all, it’s tailored to what each student needs most, when they need it.
4. Resource sharing and trusted referrals
With students across the country, we’ve developed a robust network of mental health professionals, coaches, and other supportive professionals. If a family is looking for additional resources, we’re always happy to offer guidance. With decades of experience in education, we’re well-connected to those doing excellent work in this space.
5. A schedule that supports balance
Our efficient 1:1 instruction frees up time for students to explore passions, pursue therapy, rest, or just be kids. Instead of packing their day with back-to-back classes and transitions, students can focus deeply, then recharge. This structural flexibility reflects our belief that students are more than their transcripts - and that mental health is supported not just in content, but in how we structure time.
We’re proud to stand with families and professionals working to support student well-being, and we remain deeply committed to creating learning environments that heal, not harm. If you’re seeking a school that sees the whole child, please don’t hesitate to reach out.