Mentally Sound Before Academically Sound: Hard Talk About Social-Emotional Learning

Addressing Student & Teacher Mental Health

Mobility, poverty, and teacher shortages: schools face unprecedented challenges.

But what if the answer lies in prioritizing social-emotional learning?

They say you can't pour from an empty cup. How can we support teacher mental health, so they can support our students?

In this episode of the Engaging Leadership Show, we explore how San Marcos CISD (SMCISD) is confronting the challenge of "mentally sound before academically sound". From creative strategies addressing student mobility, to groundbreaking partnerships with Texas State University building a talent pipeline, SMCISD is redefining how school districts can overcome teacher shortages while prioritizing the well-being of both students and educators.

Watch the full episode below

"Students need to be mentally sound before they can be academically sound. We need to be having some hard talk about the realities of social emotional learning and mental health within students, but also within teachers."

- Dr. Michael Cardona

A Growing District Facing Unique Challenges

San Marcos CISD is located on the I-35 corridor, about 30 miles south of Austin, Texas, and 30 miles north of San Antonio, Texas. The district is experiencing growth, much like Menifee Union School District, but faces unique challenges due to its location and demographics. With 8,300 students, San Marcos CISD is characterized by a highly mobile population and a significant percentage of students from low-income families.

Addressing Mobility and Attendance

Dr. Cardona highlights the challenges of student mobility, which in Texas is closely tied to attendance. He notes that gentrification and rising housing costs in nearby urban centers contribute to families moving frequently, impacting student attendance and requiring the district to be proactive in understanding community demographics.

"Mobility is almost very technical and related to attendance as well in the state of Texas."

- Dr. Michael Cardona

Innovative Approaches to Teacher Retention

Recognizing the teacher shortage as a critical issue, San Marcos CISD is implementing innovative strategies to attract and retain talent. These include:

Financial Support: Contributing to teachers' insurance costs to provide savings.
Technology Integration: Providing teachers with laptops and technology-rich classroom environments.
Supportive Culture: Prioritizing teachers' well-being and creating a positive campus culture.
Accessibility: Bringing HR services directly to campuses for teachers.
Partnerships: Partnering with the local university to build a talent pipeline.

"We are a people driven business and we have to take care of our people and take care of our students."

- Dr. Michael Cardona

Building a Teacher Pipeline with Texas State University

San Marcos CISD has formed a strong partnership with Texas State University to address the teacher shortage and enhance the quality of education. Key initiatives include:

Teacher Residency Program: A year-long program where student teachers work alongside mentor teachers, providing principals with an opportunity to recruit promising candidates.
Targeted Recruitment: Focusing on recruiting students from the local community who aspire to become teachers.
Financial Support for Residents: Paying residents a non-certified teacher's salary to reduce college debt.
University Collaboration: Engaging university professors in research and support roles within the district.

Community Support: A Shared Commitment

Community support is vital. San Marcos CISD emphasizes open communication, understanding community needs, and tailoring support systems to address the unique challenges faced by its students and families. San Marcos CISD exemplifies how a focus on social-emotional learning, mental health, innovative partnerships, and community engagement can transform education in the face of significant challenges.