Students from schools across Arlington ISD spent the first week of April strengthening their commitment to mental health awareness as they celebrated Hope Week and participated in the annual Hope Squad Conference. These events showcased a growing network of student leaders in the district who are building school communities grounded in safety, connection, and compassion.
The Hope Squad Conference offered mental health programs for students from sixth through 12th grade. Students explored and discussed how to support their peers, recognize signs of distress, and build a culture of care on their campuses.
“This year’s Hope Squad conference allowed opportunities for fellowship, connection, and reignited the passion behind the work,” said Sarah Gray, Arlington ISD Guidance and Counseling Elementary Specialist. “Hearing powerful testimony from guest speakers in breakout sessions and being able to collaborate with peers about the positive mental health support that Hope Squad programs at schools can provide was invaluable.”
While the conference united students districtwide, Hope Week inspired individual campuses to lead their own mental‑health focused activities. Throughout the week, trained Hope Squad members organized inclusive events at their schools designed to promote kindness, connection, and awareness. Hope Week allows mental health awareness and suicide prevention to be integrated into the positive campus climate in a developmentally appropriate way.
“Hope Week and our campus Hope Squads foster a culture of care where students feel supported, connected, and empowered to support one another,” said Telisa Brown, Arlington ISD Guidance and Counseling Director. “This creates an environment that strengthens engagement, improves attendance, and supports academic success.”
For many students, the conference offered a transformative experience that deepened their understanding of mental health and strengthened their commitment to showing up for their classmates.
“The conversations were not easy, but they were meaningful and necessary,” said Seguin High School counselor Allana Moffett. “I saw our students grow in empathy, courage, and their commitment to supporting their peers.”
Even the youngest Hope Squad members felt the impact of the event. Dr. LaTonya Aidoo, Berry Elementary counselor, explained that her students were moved by the keynote speaker and enjoyed learning how to support one another.
“This experience planted seeds of empathy, courage, and leadership that will continue to grow throughout our campus,” Aidoo said.
The Hope Squad program continues to expand across Arlington ISD, equipping students with the tools to recognize when peers may be struggling and to connect them with trusted adults. Students are taking the lead in strengthening a culture of care throughout the district, ensuring every learner feels seen, valued, and supported.
Visit the Hope Squad website for more information. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the suicide prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. You can also reach out to your school guidance counselor for support.