The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) will provide training, materials, and resources for student leadership groups to implement a mental health awareness project. Using a project-based learning model, student groups will develop and implement activities designed to increase awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, reduce stigma, and promote school and community resources. The project activities will be developed in partnership with school staff and should focus on students, staff, and families.
Elementary, middle and high school leadership classes and clubs are invited to submit an application to participate. All Orange County public, private, and charter schools are eligible to apply. Participating schools will be provided with materials, resources, training, and activity development support.
Participation Guidelines
One advisor must be involved, and a minimum of 10 students must serve as peer leaders and participate in the development and implementation of the project.
Peer leaders will receive training and attend a facilitated discussion with OCDE staff.
The advisor and students will complete a project plan.
Participating schools must complete a minimum of two activities.
1. A minimum of one activity must be completed in the fall.
2. A minimum of one activity must be completed in the spring.
Activities must include outreach to the student body, but can also include outreach to school staff and/or parents/families.
The school counseling and/or administration team must be involved to provide guidance and follow-up support as needed.
Advisors will complete a brief report on the outcomes of each activity.
The project activities must be completed by May 22, 2026.
School administration should support your partnership with the SAMH program, including program evaluation, which will include surveying peer leaders and a sample of students who participate in project activities.
OCDE Will Provide:
A workshop for peer leaders to provide foundational knowledge of mental health.
Ongoing support to help guide and develop the project using a project-based learning model.
Materials and resources to support the project, including t-shirts, promotional items with campaign messages (e.g. pens, journals, stickers), butcher paper, paint markers, etc.
Application
The Mental Health Awareness Project Application is now open. To apply, click here. Applications will be accepted until Friday, September 19, 2025.
For more information, please contact Stephanie Loscko, Program Specialist, at sloscko@ocde.us or 714-966-4319.
