Celebrating Shining Examples of School Mental Health

This program celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to cultivating a positive mental health culture within an Iowa PreK-12 school, district, or AEA.

Iowa School Mental Health Awards banner

1. Iowa School Mental Health Hero

This award honors an educator, school staff member, or practitioner for their defining contribution to school mental health in Iowa.

This individual has demonstrated exemplary leadership and commitment to expanding, promoting, and strengthening mental health and wellness supports within their school, district, or organization resulting in positive outcomes. The recipient of this award has been instrumental in helping students, educators, and/or school staff reach a heightened level of well-being (e.g., physical, mental, spiritual, and behavioral).

To qualify for this award, nominees must be employed by one of Iowa’s PreK-12 schools, school districts, or AEAs during the 2024-25 school year.

 

2. Mental Health Influencer of the Year Student Award

This award tributes a visionary youth leader who lends their voice and talents to advancing mental health awareness and initiatives. This student’s efforts have influenced decision-makers or policymakers to expand mental health supports within their school, district, region, or state.

To qualify for this award, nominees must be enrolled in one of Iowa’s PreK-12 schools during the 2024-25 school year.

Award Information

Nominate

The 2024 call for nominations is now closed.

Winners Wall

two girls posing with awards

Rachel Dunnwald and Sydney Fischer

2024 Linn-Mar High School graduates

2024 Mental Health Influencer of the Year Student Award

Woman posing with award

Natalie Nesbitt

School Counselor, Benton Community School District

2024 Iowa School Mental Health Hero

Michelle with award

Michelle Edwards

Secondary School Counselor, Cardinal Community School District

2023 Iowa School Mental Health Hero

Rylee with award

Rylee Lueken

2023 Prairie High School graduate

2023 Mental Health Influencer of the Year Student Award

Abbey with award

Abbey Schley

Founder, I’m Glad You Stayed Project

2022 Mental Health Influencer of the Year Student Award

Laura with award

Laura Greiner

Psychologist, Boys State Training School

2022 School Wellness Warrior

Sue holding award

Sue Gehling

Owner, Classroom Clinic

2022 Iowa School Mental Health Hero