A New Approach to Mental Health: How Pass High is Leading the Way with Student Support

Pass Christian High School has embarked on a bold and deeply meaningful journey this year with the launch of the Hope Squad, a peer-to-peer program designed to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing today’s youth: mental health and suicide prevention.

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The heart of the program is simple but powerful—connection. While parents, teachers, and other trusted adults play critical roles in students’ lives, research and real-world experience reveal a truth that can’t be overlooked: when life feels overwhelming, young people turn to their friends for help or to “vent.” Recognizing this, Pass High has committed to harnessing the power of peer relationships in order to save lives.

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This movement follows a heartbreaking year in which the school community endured the devastating loss of two students to suicide. In response, Pass High has resolved to say “no more” and has taken deliberate steps to change the narrative around student wellbeing. With Hope Squad, the school is channeling its energy into prevention, empathy, and hope.

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The initiative begins with the students themselves. Pass High’s own teachers Tammy McKenna, Dylan Laurie, and Belinda Nelson have proudly stepped up to oversee the program, firmly proclaiming the need and importance of supporting our youth. However the heart of the Hope Squad lies with a select group of students who were nominated by their peers.

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These are individuals recognized by classmates as approachable, compassionate, and trustworthy—the kinds of friends students know they could turn to in a time of crisis. Trained to listen, support, and connect their peers with professional help when needed, Hope Squad members are now visible leaders of kindness and hope across campus.

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Even in its early days, the program has already begun to make a positive impact. Hope Squad students have taken over a bulletin board by the cafeteria, transforming it into a Hope Wall, to fill with encouraging messages, resources, and reminders that no one is alone. The squad is also publishing newsletters and promoting monthly themes of positivity—this month’s theme being Resilience. The message is clear: no matter what challenges students face, there is strength in community, and hope is always within reach.

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Students are embracing the program with enthusiasm and pride. In hallways and classrooms, it’s not uncommon to hear the words, “I’m part of Hope Squad,” spoken with excitement and ownership. That sense of belonging is already creating ripples of encouragement and unity throughout the school.

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The mission of Hope Squad is to foster connection, spread compassion, and cultivate a culture of caring among students. While its immediate focus is Pass Christian High School, its potential impact extends far beyond. With every conversation sparked, every life touched, and every student empowered to be a source of hope, this program has the power to inspire not only the school but the entire community.

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Pass Christian High School is proving that real change starts with empathy and human connection. By giving students the tools and trust to support one another, the Hope Squad is not only standing up to suicide but also setting a precedent for how schools everywhere can respond—with courage, compassion, and hope.

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Originally published at https://thegazebogazette.com/2025/08/a-new-approach-to-mental-health-how-pass-high-is-leading-the-way-with-student-support/