Independence High School has been recognized with an Honorable Mention in Educating and Empowering Students by Erika’s Lighthouse, a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing mental health education and suicide prevention resources for schools at no cost. The recognition celebrates schools that are committed to equipping students with skills-based programming to support their mental health.
Throughout the 2024–2025 school year, Independence High School implemented Erika’s Lighthouse’s tier-1 mental health curriculum and classroom education. These lessons are designed to help students better understand mental health, reduce stigma, and build resilience.
As part of the recognition process, Independence High School successfully integrated Erika’s Lighthouse Classroom Education, which focuses on:
Reducing stigma – Encouraging students to talk openly about their feelings and reinforcing that seeking help is a sign of strength.
Building skills – Providing age-appropriate resources to help students manage stress, cope with anxiety, and develop healthy strategies.
Creating an inclusive school community – Fostering a culture where students feel safe to reach out for help for themselves or their peers.
IHS has earned the honorable mention award for empowering students through the Erika’s Lighthouse Club. The club is open for all students to join and teaches them how to recognize warning signs, promote getting help and referring friends to a trusted adult in time of need. The students spend time learning and performing activities to promote mental health wellness, while reducing stigmas.
Erika’s Lighthouse believes every student should have the knowledge and tools they need to care for their mental health. By offering comprehensive, evidence-informed programming to schools across the country, the organization helps districts like Independence Local Schools promote early identification of mental health disorders and suicide prevention in a proactive, supportive way.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our teachers, staff, and families, who work together to make mental health a priority for our students,” said Principal Mike Janatovich. “Together, we are helping our students feel seen, supported, and empowered to take care of themselves and each other.”
The Honorable Mention in Educating and Empowering Students is part of Erika’s Lighthouse’s Model Schools recognition program, which highlights schools nationwide that are committed to creating inclusive learning environments where mental health is openly addressed and supported.