VBISD Parent Meeting Empowers Families with Tools for Mental Wellness

On April 9, 2025, the Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD) Migrant/Multilingual Department hosted a vibrant and meaningful Parent Meeting that brought together families from across the district for an evening of learning, connection, and fun.

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The evening began with a shared pizza and salad dinner, giving families a chance to relax, connect with others, and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere before the main presentation.

The centerpiece of the event was the bilingual session “Manejar el Estrés y la Ansiedad” (Managing Stress and Anxiety), led by Lissette Mira-Amaya, M.A., L.M.S.W. of VBISD (Bloomingdale Public Schools), and Daisy Manriquez Ortiz, LLMSW of Hartford Middle School. Through this interactive workshop, families explored key topics around mental health and left with practical tools to reduce stress and support emotional well-being.

Highlights of the Presentation Included:

• An overview of how stress and anxiety affect both adults and children.

• Group activities focused on identifying stressors and exploring coping strategies.

• The “stress traffic light” icebreaker and thought-provoking reflection questions.

• “Box breathing” technique instruction for calming the nervous system.

• Guidance on identifying and reframing negative thinking patterns.

The presenters emphasized that managing stress begins with self-awareness and self-care—practices like journaling, gratitude, asking for support, and making time for relaxation were all shared as tools families could begin using right away.

While the adults were engaged in the presentation, Maria Hernandez and a team of helpers created a fun, safe space for children with organized activities and games—making the event enjoyable for all ages.

The evening concluded with a raffle featuring items generously donated by local businesses, sending families home with both resources and smiles.

Helpful Mental Health Resources Shared with Families:

• SAMHSA National Helpline (24/7): 1-800-662-4357 – Free, confidential support for mental health and substance use (available in Spanish)
  🔗 www.samhsa.gov

• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 and request support in Spanish.

• Insight Timer App: Free guided meditations, calming music, and breathing exercises—available in Spanish.

Presenter Contact Information:

• Lissette Mira-Amaya, M.A., LMSW
  Therapist, VBISD – Bloomingdale Public Schools
  📧 lmira-amaya@vbisd.org

• Daisy Manriquez Ortiz, LLMSW
  Therapist, Hartford Middle School
  📧 dmanriquez@vbisd.org

VBISD is proud to support the well-being of our multilingual families and thanks everyone who helped make this event a success. We look forward to continuing to create spaces where families feel supported, informed, and empowered.