Soft Start Welcomes

This promising practice highlights the Soft Start Welcomes initiative created by F.H. Collins Secondary School in Whitehorse, Yukon. The staff are working on implementing “soft start” mornings for their students who are affected by trauma including, but not limited to, the inter-generational effects of residential schools. They would like students to come to school and have the chance to check-in with a certified mental wellness counsellor on a regular basis. Similarly, the staff want students to have the opportunity to connect with other students experiencing similar situations. A soft start morning with a wellness counsellor will create an atmosphere that allows students to adjust to the school environment, prepare a healthy mindset before they begin their school day, and be introduced to a variety of mental health supports and strategies. This initiative will support students in a holistic manner addressing the emotional and deep-rooted causes of trauma, so that they have the opportunity to become successful citizens and leaders in their communities. 

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