Sibyl Minighini

MA Counseling Psychology, PPS Credential (CA)

As a school psychologist in public education and a financial literacy coach for students and parents, I believe I am well-qualified to serve as an Acalanes Union High School District board trustee. My dedication lies in listening to you, addressing your concerns, and ensuring that AUHSD provides top-quality academics and a safe learning environment for our high school students, enabling them to excel in their classes and prepare for their chosen college, university, or different career paths.

I firmly believe that a high school district should offer high-quality education within a safe learning environment to motivate every student at Acalanes HS, Campolindo HS, Las Lomas HS, Miramonte HS, AC Independent Study, and Acalanes Adult Ed to attend school regularly and achieve their potential. Parents can rest assured that their children will not miss classes and that all subjects will be taught in a safe and engaging manner.

Please vote for me on 11-05-24. I would be honored to serve you by always improving our school district’s Academic Achievement, Special Needs Education, School Safety and Mental Health, Teacher Retention and Support, Fiscal Responsibility, and to always Listen to the Community. My plan as an AUHSD trustee will be the following:

Academic Achievement: Focusing on improving academic outcomes for all students and ensuring that every student has access to high-quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Special Needs Education: Ensuring that schools provide adequate support for students with special needs, including access to appropriate resources, individualized education programs (IEPs), and specialized staff.

School Safety and Mental Health: Prioritizing the safety and mental well-being of students, which includes addressing bullying, implementing safety protocols, and providing mental health resources.

Teacher Retention and Support: Working on initiatives to retain quality teachers, provide ongoing professional development, and ensure that teachers have the resources they need to succeed in the classroom.

Fiscal Responsibility: Ensuring that the school district’s budget is managed effectively, with a focus on maximizing resources for student learning and maintaining financial stability.

Listen to the Community: School board trustees must listen to students, teachers, and parents to effectively address concerns, foster a supportive educational environment, and make informed decisions that benefit the entire school community.

High School Student Pressures 2024

Dear Parents,

High school students today face a multitude of academic and social pressures that significantly impact their well-being. These pressures are compounded by various forms of bullying, including physical, emotional, and online bullying, which are prevalent in the high school environment.

Academic Pressures: The academic demands on high school students are intense. They are expected to excel in standardized tests, maintain high GPAs, and participate in extracurricular activities to enhance their college applications. This pressure can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. The competition for college admissions has intensified, and students often feel the need to outperform their peers, which can create a high-stress environment.

Social Pressures and Bullying: Social pressures in high school are equally challenging. Students strive to fit in with their peers, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and isolation. Bullying exacerbates these pressures, manifesting in various forms:

Physical Bullying: This involves direct physical harm or threats to a student’s body or possessions. It is more commonly reported among boys, although it affects both genders.

Emotional Bullying: This includes verbal abuse, such as name-calling and spreading rumors, which can severely impact a student’s self-esteem and mental health. Girls are more likely to experience this form of bullying.

Online Bullying (Cyberbullying): With the rise of social media, cyberbullying has become a significant concern. It involves using digital platforms to harass or intimidate peers. The anonymity and reach of the internet make it a pervasive problem, leading to increased depression and anxiety among victims.

Social media plays a dual role by providing a platform for connection but also for exclusion and ridicule. Students often face pressure to maintain a certain image online, which can lead to cyberbullying. The permanence and public nature of online posts can make the effects of cyberbullying particularly damaging.

Addressing the Issue: Addressing these pressures requires a comprehensive approach involving educators, parents, and students. Schools can implement anti-bullying programs and provide resources for mental health support. Encouraging open communication and fostering a supportive school environment can help mitigate the negative effects of bullying and academic stress. By promoting awareness and understanding, communities can work towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all students.

Thank you for reading,

Sibyl Minighini

Vote by 11-05-24 Sibyl Minighini for Acalanes Union High School District

(c)2024 Contact Me At: [email protected] | 925-289-9076 | PO Box 4449, Walnut Creek CA 94596-9076