The Baker Center community is made up of thousands of caregivers, teachers, professionals, and more, who all care about advancing children’s mental health. Below, we interview a caregiver whose son attends our Manville School. If this story is inspiring to you, we hope you’ll join us at the Baker SuperK on May 4th! This community-based event is the perfect way to connect with others who want to support children with mental health conditions.
Can you describe which aspects of The Manville School at The Baker Center have had a positive impact on your family?
I love how my son and his classmates are supported to be their best selves; how my son and his classmates are loved and valued for who they are and what amazing qualities they bring to the classroom; that my son and his classmates are positively encouraged to make good choices versus receiving punitive punishments to stop making bad choices; that my son and his classmates are given leadership opportunities by participating in the Manville talent show, the Manville Fair, and other opportunities to highlight their leadership qualities; that my son and his classmates are periodically honored for going above and beyond when they are Student of the Week (which my son has received twice); and so many other supportive, encouraging, loving ways of fostering a child’s confidence.
Can you describe what life was like before and after you discovered The Manville School?
From the first day my son arrived in Manville’s care, he was changed for the better. I was terrified to send my then 5-year-old on a bus for up to an hour each way to a school I hardly knew, not knowing how profoundly different the school could be. At the end of the first day, my son had the happiest smile on his face getting off the bus, and his first words to me were “I was not the bad kid today”. I cried happy tears and knew from that moment, that Manville was different, and I’ve kept learning how much so every day since.
Can you share a special or significant memory about your son’s experience at The Manville School?
At the end of my son’s kindergarten year, at the Manville’s Awards Ceremony, my son was awarded the “Flying Pokémon Award for Friendship” which reads as follows:
“Flying type Pokemon are adventurous, lively, and outgoing. This student does not hesitate to invite others to join him on a classroom break or a playground game. Since joining Manville, this student quickly has made friends with students throughout the school. He is great at noticing how the people around him are feeling and always tries to help his friends feel their best. He is someone to count on for a high five, a hug, pep talk or some other boost when needed. It is for this caring and inclusive attitude that I am proud to present the Flying Pokemon Award of Friendship to [my son]”
This would never have been the outcome of my son’s kindergarten year if he had stayed at his public elementary school. It would have been the exact opposite or worse. Something I feel so grateful I did not experience, but I recognize many families who are not lucky to receive supports do experience.
This is what drives my advocacy work to tell everyone I can about the amazing work that the Baker Center for Children and Families provides. I never expected to be in our situation, but through it, I’ve found a voice to help others know that supportive communities do exist, and no one is ever alone.
Want to join our community and share stories just like this one?
Attend our annual SuperK on May 4!