Students from Newfield High School and Centereach High School recently traveled to Albany to participate in Northwell Health’s Cohen Strong Program, a youth mental health leadership, education, and advocacy initiative designed for students in grades 10 through 12.
Accompanied by Mrs. Derasmo and Ms. Anderson, the students joined fellow Cohen Strong participants from across New York State at the Capitol to rally and meet with legislators. During their visit, students advocated for two bills currently in the New York State Senate that would provide funding for mental health training for both students and school staff.
The Cohen Strong Program focuses on educating young people about mental health while empowering them to become peer leaders within their schools and communities. Through the program, students learn how to recognize mental health challenges, support their peers, and advocate for policies that strengthen mental health resources for young people.
While in Albany, the students spoke with lawmakers about the importance of expanding mental health education and training in schools, sharing their perspectives and experiences as student leaders committed to promoting well-being and support among their peers. The experience provided students with a powerful opportunity to engage in civic leadership while raising awareness about the importance of mental health resources in schools.
The Middle Country Central School District is proud of these students for using their voices to advocate for meaningful change and for demonstrating leadership in promoting mental health awareness and support for students across New York State.