East Volusia News

LYNN HAVEN, Fla.—Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis introduced new Resiliency Florida resources aimed at supporting students and parents in building resiliency both at school and at home. The initiative includes a unique opportunity for Florida parents and grandparents to serve as in-school Resiliency Coaches, assisting students in overcoming challenges.

"Resiliency is important for students to successfully navigate and overcome life’s obstacles," remarked First Lady Casey DeSantis, highlighting the significance of the program. She emphasized that the initiative would provide parents, grandparents, teachers, and mentors with the tools to engage in crucial discussions with students about resiliency.

Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr., expressed support for the First Lady's initiative, stating, “The First Lady’s Resiliency Florida initiative is an innovative way to approach mental health and student support.” He further added, “We are proud to be a part of this historic endeavor and look forward to finding more ways to encourage Florida students to be resilient.”

Resiliency Florida focuses on reshaping mental health education by emphasizing the development of resiliency skills such as grit, perseverance, gratitude, personal responsibility, decision-making, and more. This first-in-the-nation initiative aims to equip students with the necessary tools to tackle life's challenges effectively.

As part of the program, parents will have access to discussion guides to facilitate conversations at home and actively participate in their child's resiliency education. The Resiliency Coach training, which includes a one-hour session and a volunteering practicum in schools, will offer a $150 stipend to eligible parents and grandparents. Training for Resiliency Coaches will commence this summer, with practicum hours starting in the fall of 2024.

In addition to the resources announced, the Department of Education has created pathways for adults, parents, school counselors, and educators to support students in building resiliency. The State Board of Education has already adopted the First Lady's recommendations, embedding concepts of civic responsibility and mentorship into the curriculum to prepare students to be responsible citizens.

Florida's commitment to education and resiliency underscores its leadership in providing robust support for students and empowering parents. To access Resiliency Florida materials and resources, individuals can visit the new Resiliency Florida website at BuildResiliency.org.