In honor of May Mental Health Awareness Month, the School Mental Health Department proudly hosted the Our Stories Matter Art Gala — an inspiring evening dedicated to uplifting student voice, celebrating resilience, and strengthening community connection through the power of art.
The event was a tremendous success, receiving more than 200 student art submissions from across the district. Through painting, drawing, and other creative expressions, students courageously shared deeply personal stories and reflections on their mental health journeys. Each piece represented not only artistic talent, but also vulnerability, strength, hope, and healing.
Families, students, staff, and community members gathered to celebrate the creativity and bravery of our young artists in an atmosphere filled with encouragement, compassion, and unity. With more than 300 attendees, the gala served as a powerful reminder that when students feel safe to express themselves, meaningful healing and connection can occur.
One of the evening’s most heartfelt moments was the opportunity to honor the legacy of our late director and visionary leader, Patti Azevedo. As a pioneer of the Student and Family Support Services Department, including the School Mental Health Department, Patti’s unwavering dedication transformed the lives of countless students and families throughout the district. Her passion for equity, wellness, and student support continues to guide and inspire this work every day. The gala stood as a beautiful tribute to the lasting impact of her leadership and the strong foundation she helped build.
The success of the event was also made possible through the incredible generosity of donors and community partners who enthusiastically stepped forward to support the gala. Their willingness to contribute reflects a shared understanding of the importance of accessible mental health support for students. From decorations and refreshments to raffle donations and event sponsorships, the overwhelming community support demonstrated a collective commitment to student wellness, belonging, and care.
The School Mental Health Department continues to serve as a vital source of support, advocacy, and compassion for students and families across the district. Through programs like Our Stories Matter, the department remains dedicated to reducing stigma, encouraging emotional expression, and creating spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
This unforgettable evening celebrated more than art — it celebrated courage, healing, connection, resilience, and the power of community.
