Celebrating World Health Day

Each year on April 7, the World Health Organization (WHO) celebrates World Health Day, a specific time to recognize, address, and practice physical, mental, and emotional well-being. At Mount Vernon, we know that this topic should not just be discussed or observed one day a year, but rather threaded through all that we do. Focusing on mind, body, and unity through wellness is a priority for the School. 

In order to cultivate healthy rhythms of life and relationships, the School provides a broad collection of support services to students. Building confidence and awareness through meaningful connections, belonging, purpose, and encouragement, every student is wholly supported and positioned for success. 

Recently, Made in MV podcast host Katie Trenney sat down with Director of Counseling Services Dr. Kelli Bynum and Director of Lower Campus Counseling Stephanie Corbett to learn how overall wellness is practiced at Mount Vernon. 

“One of the things that has been a huge growth for us as a School is that the concepts that are primarily covered by counselors have become concepts that our entire faculty and Head of School talk about,” Kelli shared. “It became something that all of us talked about.” 

Not only do we prepare faculty to show empathy while being available and supportive of students, but we give groups in our community the space and opportunity to connect and be there for each other. 

“I think my favorite thing about Mount Vernon was the sense of family,” Stephanie said. “On Lower Campus, classes have morning meetings that really start their days off on the right foot. We’re here to lean on each other, we’re here to talk about things going on in and outside of school. If you’re able to drive with emotion in the classroom, it creates such a wonderful environment for kids, and I think Mount Vernon does a wonderful job at that.” 

Together as divisions, students are encouraged through emotional well-being, too. Grounded in Christian values, all students at Mount Vernon attend a weekly chapel service, building up students through the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Additionally, every Mount Vernon student is taught to celebrate their individual unique identity. 

On the field, in the gym, or at The Frontier, Mustangs are able to play and be active throughout the day. Stretching their legs, running, jumping, and taking breaks from learning allows students to work on their physical health. Additionally, students are supported in pursuits of after school activities and sports, both at Mount Vernon and in the community. 

For more on wellness at the School, as well as tips and tricks to practice healthy habits at home, check out the full episode of the Made in MV podcast.