Great Neck North High School Honored For Mental Health Services

GREAT NECK, NY — The John L. Miller Great Neck North High School was honored with New York State’s 2021 ‘What’s Great in our State’s School/School District Award on Monday.

School officials were presented with the award in a Zoom broadcast of the annual ‘What’s Great in our State 2021’ awards on May 4. It recognized the people and programs successfully advancing the cause of children’s mental health in the state, according to a news release from the state’s Office of Mental Health.

Education systems across the state have increasingly recognized the importance of supporting wellness, and addressing the mental health needs of students, and the high school was recognized for its partnership with students, families, teachers, school administrators, and other professionals to create safe, healthy and supportive learning environments, state officials said.

School administrators showed they prioritized wellness in the school culture and organized an annual Mental Health and Wellness Week with presentations, student workshops, and mindfulness activities, according to state officials.

The high school showed state officials “‘What’s Great in Our State’ by creating an environment that ensures students can achieve success academically, socially, and emotionally,” said Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan.

“Having a safe, stigma-free environment where children can address behavioral health struggles and promote mindfulness has a profound impact on their educational experience,” she said. “We thank Great Neck North High School and all our honorees for their hard work and commitment to children’s mental health.”

Principal Dan Holtzman said the high school’s counseling team is pleased to be recognized for its efforts to provide support services and resources to students, parents, and the community.

“Our team is giving students the tools and skills needed to help them lead socially and emotionally healthy lives,” he added.