Wayne County Community Schools Receives Statewide Recognition for Mental Health Innovation

Wayne County Community Schools is proud to be recognized as the 2025 “What’s Great in Our State” Honoree by the NYS Office of Mental Health in the Organization category. This award honors outstanding programs making a meaningful impact on the mental health of children, youth, and families across New York State.

This annual recognition, presented during Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week, celebrates programs that are culturally responsive, family-centered, and deeply committed to equity, especially in communities that have historically faced barriers to care. Our team was honored at the statewide celebration in Albany on May 6, 2025, alongside other individuals and organizations leading powerful change across the state.

In Wayne County, access to mental health services is often limited due to its rural geography and systemic challenges. However, Wayne County Community Schools has made significant efforts to bridge that gap. By embedding mental health professionals directly into schools, we provide free, accessible care where children and families already are - reducing stigma, strengthening trust, and building bridges between schools and community resources.

This work is rooted in our whole-child, whole-community approach, which integrates mental wellness into everyday learning, family engagement, trauma-informed practices, and youth voice. Through strong partnerships and a robust Community Schools framework, we are creating safe, supportive environments where students can thrive both academically and emotionally.

We are honored to receive this recognition and proud to represent the power of collaboration, innovation, and resilience. Most importantly, we are grateful to the many school staff, partners, families, and youth who make this work possible.

To learn more about our approach and the impact we’re making, visit our website: www.waynecountycommunityschools.org.