Ontario government introduces mandatory new mental health curriculum for students

BY PAUL JUNOR

The announcement that the Ontario government is revamping the Grade 10 Career Studies and replacing it with a compulsory Mental Health curriculum caught many education stakeholders by surprise.

It was announced in a press release and by Education Minister Stephen Lecce at a press conference. There will be the introduction to compulsory Mental Health resources for teachers and students on mental health literacy in grades seven and eight.

The press release states the decision to strengthen mental health learning and support for students was made after a motion in the Ontario legislature by Natalie Pierre, Member of Provincial Parliament for Burlington. Stephen Lecce, Ontario Education Minister states, “We know that strengthening mandatory mental health literacy in the curriculum is the right thing to do. Natalie is a strong advocate and MPP, but most of all she is a mother driven to ensure we prevent tragedies and save lives. That is why it is so important that all students learn healthy coping strategies, stress management and better recognition of the early signs. We want children to have the tools and confidence to succeed in the classroom and to always know that they are not alone.”

The press release mentioned that the new compulsory mental health literacy will include:

• New learning materials for grades seven and eight students that are aligned with the and physical education curriculum
• Mandatory learning on mental health literacy for Grade 10 students will start in the fall of 2024, and will include how to recognize signs of being overwhelmed or struggling, as well as where to find help when needed

Michael Tibollo (Associate Minister of Mental Health) notes, “Improving mental health literacy in schools is a critical part of building the resiliency skills that our children and youth need to grow up to be happy adults. There is no health without mental health. By providing schools with these resources, we can lower stigma and improve connections to the community sector where students and their families can access Ontario’s curriculum.”

MPP Natalie Pierre states, “The Mental health and well-being of students continue to be a priority for our government. I am beyond thrilled and proud that our government is introducing mandatory health education in our schools. Mental health literacy can be taught just like any subject in school, and we know that students who receive appropriate support have improved academic success. Our government is getting it done by leading the way in Canada making mental health education a required part of elementary and secondary school education.”

Theresa Kennedy (Associate Director, School Mental Health Ontario) tweeted, “School Mental Health Ontario welcomes these additional investments to promote student mental health. The important new curriculum offers to enhance mental health literacy in grades 7 ,8, and 10 with help to equip every student with identity-affirming, research-based knowledge, skills and strategies to support their mental health and wellness.”

Minister Lecce tweeted, “No parent has to see their child suffer in silence. We are stepping up mental health support in the classroom with new investments and practical tools designed for students. It’s a message of hope and a reminder that you are not alone.” He notes further, “The mission is to create a personal toolbox of skills that a young person can utilize in their life, in their jobs, and in the classroom.”

Stephan Mensah (Director of the Toronto Youth Cabinet Executive) is supportive of the mandatory mental health training for school staff. He stated in an email statement, “The announcement by Minister Lecce is a win for students who have long called for this, more specifically last year in our province wide survey where over 94% students indicated support for such an initiative.”