DuPage school districts to hold free mental health symposium
A free mental health and wellness symposium in Aurora will offer expert presentations for students and families on topics ranging from anxiety and healthy body image to therapeutic painting.
Six school systems — Indian Prairie Unit District 204, East Aurora Unit District 131, West Aurora Unit District 129, Naperville Unit District 203, Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 and Oswego Unit School District 308 — are collaborating to hold the symposium at Metea Valley High School in Aurora Saturday, March 8.
District 204 expanded the event this year to include five additional school districts.
“By working together, we can expand access to vital mental health resources and ensure that more students and families receive the support they need,” Indian Prairie Superintendent Adrian Talley said in a statement. “This symposium is an opportunity for our communities to come together, learn, and take meaningful steps toward well-being.”
Dr. Doug Bolton, a licensed clinical psychologist and the author of “Untethered: Creating Connected Families, Schools, and Communities to Raise a Resilient Generation,” will deliver a keynote address.
Adults will receive a complimentary copy of Dr. Bolton’s book. The first 500 adult attendees will receive a complimentary welcome bag, and the first 200 students will receive a free T-shirt depicting flowers and the message, “growth. not perfection.”
Breakout sessions are designed for both adults and students in grades 6-12. The event also will include a book fair, a community resource fair and complimentary lunch and child care services for children ages 3 to 10.
The event is open to the public, and registration is required. Doors open at 8 a.m. For details, visit ipsd.org/symposium.