Topeka Public Schools

At our school board meeting on February 3, 2022, Topeka Public Schools expressed appreciation to our counselors for National School Counseling Week and shared the importance of investing in mental health.

In support of our staff, our school board approved a calendar adjustment to close school on Presidents' Day on February 21, 2022, to provide one paid mental health day for all staff members.

Partner organizations and agencies agreed to support this Mental Health Day by providing our staff with low or no-cost self-care services that include physical and mental health resources.

Read the full letter to families in English and Spanish.

MENTAL HEALTH DAY RESOURCES

We thank our partners who are supporting us in providing low-cost childcare and activities for families.

• Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka
  Offering child care
  Contact 785-234-5601 or [email protected]
  
  

• Kansas Children's Discovery Center
  Opening their center 9 AM - 5 PM for families to visit

• YWCA
  Offering childcare at Whitson Elementary
  Contact Mrs. Maggie at [email protected]

Thank you to the following organizations and businesses for their support of Mental Health Day:

• Genesis Health Clubs Offers for TPS Staff
  - 10 Day Membership pass for family valid from 2/15/22 - 2/25/22
  - 10 Day Fitness Challenge with a chance to win a 6 month membership
  - Unlimited Group Classes (Spin, Yoga, Zumba, Boot Camp & more)
  - 1 Personal Training Session (Must schedule session ahead of time) 
  - Special Prize Giveaways on the 21st of February 
  - $0 Enrollment & a 6 month Buddy Membership on a Month to Month Membership enrollment

• Massage Envy Offers for TPS Staff
  - Mention you are a Topeka Public Schools/USD 501 staff member to receive a 60 minute service (massage, stretch, facials) for only $60
  - Discount offered for the remainder of the 2021-2022 school year

• Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library
  

• Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka
  - Offering child care

• Kansas Children's Discovery Center
  - $1 off admission for families with code 501 SPECIAL

• YWCA
  - Offering child care at Whitson Elementary

• Culver's Offers to TPS Staff & Families
  - 25% off total bill with employee or student ID
  - Click to view discount information

• Family Service & Guidance Center Offers for Staff
  - Free 20-minute mental health sessions
  - Referrals as needed to other long-term services
  - Virtual parent mental health night to provide families with play therapy resources
  - Download the free 7 Cups app to help struggling teens (ages 13-17) connect to 24/7 resources

• Important Links:

• Mental Health Check-In (TPS Staff)
• 7 Cups Apps (Students)
• Real-World Parenting (Families)
  

• New Directions Behavioral Health
  -Mental health resource for TPS staff & families