Jenni provided counseling to a cohort of ten administrators as well as nine other leaders who reached out for support. In September, the ten participants reported anywhere from 10-15 days out of 30 where stress and stress reactions impacted their well-being. Jenni gave them access to tools through Monday Mindset emails which included short videos, activities, and podcasts focused on tools to add to their self-care toolbox. While another COVID year created barriers to meeting regularly in small groups, we were able to meet multiple times during the year to build a sense of community and shared experiences.  She also met individually each month to support participants in setting proactive goals and developing skills to identify and manage stressful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

As a result of the program, by March, 9 of the 10 administrators indicated a reduction to 5 or fewer days of high stress and reported using a new strategy to manage the stress reaction through increased self-awareness, awareness of triggers, and the ability to use reflection to increase mindfulness. The sessions led to increased resiliency and the ability to positively withstand stressors and recover from difficult situations, which benefited them personally and professionally.

One participant shared, “Oftentimes as principals; we have to carry a large load or heavy burden. We don’t have too many people we can discuss our issues or stressors with. Having the ability to meet once a month with someone who knows what we are going through and sends us strategies and techniques is powerful. Oftentimes it just makes you feel better to be able to have an adult conversation without feeling you are being unprofessional.“