School Counseling Program Invites Educators to “Whitworth Cares” Wellness Retreat
According to the most recent Gallup Panel Workforce Study, 44 percent of K-12 educators say they “always” or “very” often feel burned out, and a study conducted this year by Prodigy Education found that out of 800 educators surveyed, about 95 percent of teachers reported “some level of stress” while 68 percent reported moderate to very high stress due to their jobs.
Whitworth is doing what it can to help by offering events like Whitworth Cares. It’s made possible, in part, by the largest grant in the university’s history, a $3.37 million award from the U.S. Department of Education that established the Whitworth University School-Based Mental Health Partnership Program (WU-MHPP). Through this program, Whitworth is addressing the needs of certified school counselors and educators across five high-need school districts and three Educational Service Districts in Eastern Washington, helping to strengthen mental health support within our schools and communities.
“We are so thankful for this funding from the U.S. Department of Education that allows us to support the needs of educators,” says Renee’ Schoening, director of school counseling and social emotional learning graduate programs. “We simply cannot address the mental health of K-12 students without also championing the wellness of teachers and counselors. This professional development opportunity is being offered as an expression of gratitude for the hard work being accomplished in our Eastern Washington partner schools. We are concerned about the high burnout rates among education professionals and want to equip them with the tools they need to be resilient.”
The daylong retreat will feature a variety of breakout sessions designed to equip counselors with practical tools and training to support their well-being and professional growth. In addition, participants will be invited to enjoy restorative activities such as guided breathing exercises, somatic yoga, art therapy, a prayer and journaling space, and live music creating an atmosphere of renewal, reflection and connection.
The event is free but requires registration here. Clock hours are available.
About Whitworth’s School Counseling, M.Ed., Program:
Whitworth's School Counseling, M.Ed., program is designed for busy, working adults. Courses are offered in the late afternoon and evening. Each class meets only once a week. Students can earn their master’s degree and residency in only 60 credits and complete the program in as few as three years. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel as counselors in educational settings or to enhance their effectiveness as teachers or administrators.
Created for those who want to make a lasting difference, this program equips graduates to support students through life’s challenges, help them unlock their potential, and inspire their futures. Guided by Whitworth’s commitment to academic excellence, faith and community, students will gain knowledge, skills and compassion to serve as trusted advocates for young people.
We invite you to learn more about Whitworth’s School Counseling, M.Ed., program by visiting https://bit.ly/4360wmA.
About Whitworth University:
Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private, Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university has an enrollment of about 2,500 students and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Contacts:
Trisha Coder, associate director of media relations, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu
