Supporting student mental health is critical, and now Portage Public Schools (PPS) has just the right person for the job.

Marianne Joynt began as Coordinator of Mental Health Initiatives at PPS Monday, December 5, in the newly formed position within the Educational Supports and Interventions Department.

“Over the last several years, the importance of mental health has come to the forefront of conversation. Anxiety and depression have plagued even those who never struggled in the past,” Joynt said.

Schools across Michigan saw spikes in student mental health issues amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Mental health struggles can manifest in students as behavioral issues, poor attendance, emotional withdrawal or falling grades, Joynt said.

“School-based mental health is a vital part of student support systems,” she said. “Early identification, referrals for treatments, and general support can be life-changing for students.”

Many families know they need services but don’t know how to get them, Joynt said. When students are in need of therapy, families may struggle to find where to go and who can help.

“It’s hard for parents to do on their own,” Joynt said. “The hope is to build a system that provides connection and support for all, to reduce stigma and barriers to mental health treatment, and create a community in which everyone can have their needs met.”

Joynt holds a masters degree from Western Michigan University in Counseling Psychology. She joins a staff of about two dozen other professionals including school psychologists and mental health therapists at PPS who are charged with supporting students in need.

Joynt comes to PPS after working as a liaison to the District for Integrated Services of Kalamazoo.

As a school-based clinician for 15 years, Joynt worked alongside school staff to identify students in need and connect families with community resources. Now as part of PPS, Joynt will utilize those same community connections, and in her new role teach staff about student mental health and support staff members with their own mental health issues.

“The District sees the need,” she said of mental health support for both staff and students. “While mental health issues existed prior to the pandemic, school leaders and the people who allocate state and federal funding are now recognizing it as truly crucial for students’ wellbeing.”

Dr. Jeanine Mattson-Gearhart, Director of Educational Supports and Intervention, said the District is fortunate to have Joynt join the staff at PPS.

“Marianne will play a vital role in our schools supporting our students and families,” Mattson-Gearhart said. “She brings with her a valuable connection to additional community resources and the ability to engage with community partners to assist our students,” said Mattson-Gearhart.

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