As part of its ongoing commitment to nurturing the whole child, DeSoto Independent School District is recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month this May by spotlighting innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and expanded wellness resources that are transforming how the district supports the emotional and mental well-being of its scholars.
Innovative Wellness Spaces: Zen Dens
Central to this work is the implementation of Zen Dens—proactive, student-centered wellness spaces designed to support emotional regulation, reduce stress, and promote restorative practices across campuses. First introduced during the previous academic year, these spaces have been expanded and utilized at full scale during the current school year, reflecting the district’s deepening commitment to student wellness.
“The work of supporting student mental health is foundational to student success,” said Metric Manning, DeSoto ISD Director of Student Services. “Our goal is to ensure every scholar has access to environments and supports that help them feel safe, seen, and ready to learn.”
The Zen Dens are thoughtfully designed environments that include calming zones for meditation, movement, sensory support, and restorative practices. Each space is aligned with trauma-informed care principles and social-emotional learning (SEL) goals.
Initial implementation began at select campuses, including Amber Terrace Early Childhood Learning Center, with additional spaces continuing to be added across the district. Full expansion is expected by summer, with all sites fully operational for the start of the 2025–2026 academic year.
The initiative has been made possible through strategic grant funding, including:
- Stronger Connections Grant – Supporting full “Harmony Suite” Zen Den installations at DeSoto High School/Early College, West Middle School, and Cockrell Hill Elementary, including advanced tools and on-site training
- SAFE Grant – Providing tiered wellness spaces at McCowan, DAEP, The Meadows, Woodridge, KJ, and an upgraded space at Amber Terrace
The district partnered with 2InspirePeace to design and implement the Zen Dens, ensuring each space is intentional, restorative, and responsive to student needs.
Research-Based Approach to Student Wellness
The district’s efforts are grounded in national research demonstrating the impact of trauma-informed and restorative practices. Studies have shown significant reductions in student anxiety, classroom disruptions, and exclusionary discipline practices, along with improvements in student engagement and graduation rates.
“These spaces are not just calming rooms—they are part of a larger system of supports designed to help students regulate, reflect, and re-engage in learning,” said Dr. Gene Morrow, DeSoto ISD Executive Director of Student Support Services. “We are building a culture where mental wellness is embedded into the daily student experience.”
Expanding Whole-Child Supports
In addition to Zen Dens, DeSoto ISD continues to expand wellness opportunities through college access grant programs and campus-based initiatives, including:
- Yoga and meditation sessions
- Therapeutic coloring and creative expression activities
- Guided breathing exercises and relaxation stations during high-stress periods
These offerings are available across grade levels and are designed to reduce anxiety, build self-awareness, and promote lifelong wellness habits.
Systemwide Impact and Measurable Results
As a result of the district’s investment in whole-child system supports, the District Transformation Team—comprised of four experienced staff members—has driven impactful implementation across key areas, including:
- Character Counts (SEL curriculum)
- Safe & Civil Schools practices
- Restorative practices and discipline systems
- Student Support Teams (SST)
- Parent University and family engagement
- Staff wellness initiatives such as Wellness Wednesday
During the Fall 2025 semester:
- More than 600 students received direct behavioral support
- Over 10 professional development sessions were delivered
- 11 campus Zen Dens were implemented
- Districtwide SEL curriculum was launched
These efforts have led to measurable improvements in student outcomes:
- 22% decrease in out-of-school suspensions
- 22% decrease in DAEP placements
- 31% decrease in teacher removals
At the same time, the district saw a strategic increase in restorative practices:
- 62% increase in in-school suspensions
- Significant growth in administrator-led interventions and conferences
A Continued Commitment to Student Wellness
DeSoto ISD’s comprehensive mental health framework also includes:
- Stronger Connections Program for targeted interventions
- LIT Mentoring Program in partnership with the DeSoto Police Department
- Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)
- Certified counselors and access to community mental health resources
The district is also investing in ongoing staff training to strengthen trauma-informed practices, SEL integration, and supportive classroom environments.
“Supporting the mental and emotional well-being of our students is not separate from academics—it is essential to it,” said Brent S. Mitchell, Interim Superintendent of Schools. “We are committed to creating environments where every student can thrive, both in the classroom and beyond.”
Supporting Staff Wellness
DeSoto ISD’s commitment to whole-child wellness extends to its employees by prioritizing staff mental, emotional, and overall well-being. Team members have access to campus-based Zen Dens as restorative spaces to reset and recharge throughout the day, as well as weekly Wellness Wednesday sessions designed to support various aspects of employee wellness, including stress management, mindfulness, and work-life balance. In addition, the district’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides confidential access to counseling and therapy services for employees and their spouses or dependents at no cost, along with financial counseling, legal services, and other supportive resources. Together, these layered supports contribute to healthier staff, a more positive and resilient workplace culture, and ultimately a stronger, more supportive school system where both adults and students can thrive.
DeSoto ISD encourages families and community members to participate in Mental Health Awareness Month by engaging in campus events, utilizing district resources, and fostering open conversations about mental health at home.