Whiteoak students shine in suicide prevention awareness effort

Courtesy of Jason Iles
Superintendent
Bright Local Schools

Mowrystown – This winter, Whiteoak Junior/Senior High School students had the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through our Suicide Prevention T-shirt Design Contest. 

The contest aimed to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of suicide prevention, encouraging students to use their creativity to spread a powerful message of hope and support.

After receiving several thoughtful and inspiring submissions, seventh-grader Madelyn Howard was selected as the winner. Her design captured the essence of encouragement and awareness, serving as a reminder that no one is alone, and help is always available. As a token of appreciation for her outstanding work, Madelyn was awarded an Amazon gift card.

Thanks to the generosity and dedication of Kelly Dennis and Melinda Sheets from Paint Valley ADAMH, the Highland County Suicide Prevention Coalition, and grant manager Abby Haynes from the Public Health Fund of Ohio, every student and staff member at Whiteoak will receive a T-shirt featuring Madelyn’s winning design. This incredible initiative ensures that our school community not only raises awareness but also fosters a culture of support, resilience and open conversations surrounding mental health.

We are so proud of our students for engaging in this important initiative. By wearing these shirts, we are sending a powerful message that mental health matters and that we are all in this together.

A huge thank-you to everyone involved in making this initiative possible. Together, we continue to promote mental wellness and support for all students.