Supporting Mental Health in Schools: A Priority in French-language Catholic education

Student well-being is at the heart of everything we do at L’École catholique. In today’s world, where young people face growing challenges, schools need to provide more than just academics: they must offer a safe, supportive space where emotional balance, a sense of security, and inner peace can thrive. At L’École catholique, we believe that a calm and healthy mind is essential for learning. That’s why mental health is a key part of French-language Catholic education.

Guided by values of compassion, respect, and human dignity, L’École catholique supports every student—mind, body, and spirit. We foster caring environments where faith, culture, and inclusion lay the foundation for a positive school climate. From the earliest years, students learn to build emotional intelligence, manage stress, express their emotions clearly, and show empathy, with guidance every step of the way. These life skills are developed through a consistent approach to social-emotional learning, woven into both the curriculum and daily life at school.

Ontario’s French-language Catholic school boards have adopted a coordinated and inclusive approach to mental health. This includes working closely with trained professionals, committed community partners, and families. With a multi-tiered model in place, students can access support that fits their needs, whether it’s promoting general well-being, offering targeted help, or addressing more complex challenges. The goal isn’t just to respond when issues arise, but to nurture a school culture built on prevention and resilience.

Teachers are equipped with concrete tools to bring mental health into the classroom. One example is the “MH LIT: Student Mental Health in Action” initiative, supported by School Mental Health Ontario. It helps raise awareness of mental health issues while encouraging students to care for themselves and for others. These practices reduce stigma and foster empathy, active listening, and a strong sense of community both in school and beyond.

French-language Catholic education never loses sight of the power of hope. Prayer, spiritual reflection, and core Christian values are closely connected to mental well-being. They give students a sense of meaning and inner strength, helping them grow through life’s challenges. Creating space for calm, open conversation, and emotional expression is a daily act of care and of faith.

This commitment to mental health is also reflected in the interactions at school. Strong, trusting relationships between students, staff, and families play a vital role in building a sense of belonging. Being seen, heard, and understood in a welcoming school environment allows every student to flourish. Mentorship programs, talking circles, and collaborative projects help strengthen those bonds. At L’École catholique, no one is left to walk alone.

Recognizing signs of distress, adjusting teaching approaches, and offering a listening ear—these small, daily actions make a real difference. By empowering adults to support children and youth, we create a strong, compassionate safety net that can meet the diverse needs of our school communities.

When families choose L’École catholique, they are choosing a well-rounded, human-centred approach for their children. It’s a learning environment that values academic achievement just as much as emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. With the right support, our students are empowered to learn, thrive, and help build a more peaceful future.