Educators

Every student needs at least one adult who shows up, notices, and cares.

As an educator, you don’t just teach content—you often become the trusted adult a student turns to when life feels heavy. “Be Their Person” is about recognizing that role and using it in simple, everyday ways that can make a lasting difference.

What It Means to “Be Their Person”

Being “their person” doesn’t mean having all the answers.

It means:

  • Noticing when something feels different
  • Creating space for students to feel seen and heard
  • Checking in, even when it feels small
  • Connecting students to support when they need more help
  • Showing up consistently and compassionately

Small moments of connection can become protective moments in a student’s life.

Why It Matters

Many young people who struggle with mental health or suicidal thoughts don’t initially reach out for help—but they do show signs.

Educators are often:

  • The first to notice changes
  • The first to hear subtle concerns
  • The first trusted adult outside the home

One conversation can interrupt isolation and create time for support to step in.

How to Be Their Person in the Classroom

Notice

Pay attention to changes over time, not just isolated incidents.

Look for:

  • Withdrawal or isolation
  • Drop in academic performance
  • Increased anxiety or irritability
  • Changes in attendance or engagement
  • Expressions of hopelessness or self-doubt

Connect

A simple conversation can open the door.

Try:

“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed quite like yourself lately. I just wanted to check in with you.”

You don’t need to fix it—you just need to start it.

Support

You are not expected to carry this alone.

Connect students to:

  • School counselors or social workers
  • School mental health teams
  • Trusted family members or caregivers
  • Community supports
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 24/7)

Creating a Safe School Environment

Everyday classroom practices can strengthen student wellbeing:

  • Build predictable, supportive routines
  • Normalize conversations about emotions and stress
  • Use strengths-based language
  • Encourage belonging and connection
  • Watch for patterns, not isolated moments
  • Follow school protocols when concerns arise

When a Student Is in Crisis

Take all concerns seriously.

If a student:

  • Talks about suicide or wanting to die
  • Shows sudden, extreme behavioral changes
  • Appears overwhelmed or disconnected
  • Has a plan or access to means

Act immediately:

  • Stay with the student (or ensure supervision)
  • Contact your school counselor or administrator
  • Follow your school crisis protocol
  • Call 988 for real-time guidance
  • Call 911 if there is immediate danger

Lethal Means Safety in Schools & Homes

Many crises are short-term. Reducing access to lethal means creates time for support and recovery.

Encourage families to:

  • Store firearms securely and unloaded
  • Lock medications and monitor quantities
  • Dispose of unused medications through take-back programs
  • Secure alcohol and other substances in the home

You Don’t Have to Be Perfect—You Just Have to Be Present

You won’t always know the right thing to say. That’s okay.

What matters most is:

  • Showing up
  • Paying attention
  • Staying connected
  • Following through

Those moments add up more than you realize.

Be Their Person

A single trusted adult can change a young person’s path.

Notice. Connect. Support.

And when in doubt—start the conversation.

Need Resources?

Explore tools for educators:

  • Suicide prevention training
  • Student mental health resources
  • Crisis response guidance
  • Postvention support
  • Parents Lead family engagement materials

If You Remember One Thing

You may be the reason a student feels like they matter that day.