The Coalition’s youth engagement work was spotlighted at the annual Breakfast for School Wellness Leaders (sponsored by the RI Healthy Schools Coalition on October 16th, 2025.  Coalition Director Susan Orban presented the 4-part youth-driven ACTION PLAN for Mental Wellness as part of a panel discussion focused on “Growing Community & Cultivating Belonging.” 

Susan offered these 5 recommendations for School Leaders to help foster youth engagement: 

1. Make youth in your community feel seen, heard and valued
2. Always seek out youth perspectives on matters that pertain to them
3. Give them seats at the decision-making table & foster their leadership
4. Normalize & model breaks & balance
5. Question the expectations we place on our youth

Susan shared this brief video showcasing members of the Coalition’s Youth Advisory Council.