Halifax High School Students Lead the Way in Prevention & Wellness Education
Southside Behavioral Health is proud to highlight the powerful work taking place through S.P.E.A.K. (Students for Prevention, Education, Awareness, and Knowledge) at Halifax High School. Over the past two weeks, this student-led coalition has hosted meaningful events designed to spark conversations, provide education, and strengthen student wellness across campus.
Educating Peers on Substance Use
On November 10th, S.P.E.A.K. hosted its first major event for all grade levels, bringing in guest speakers from Project IMPACT at VCU. The presentation focused on the realities of vaping and marijuana use, equipping students with facts, prevention strategies, and the tools needed to make informed choices. The event was well received and sparked important dialogue about the impacts substance use can have on teens.
A Powerful Conversation on Suicide Prevention
During their monthly meeting on November 19th, S.P.E.A.K. welcomed a special guest: Mrs. Donna Lopez, a Mecklenburg County school teacher, mother, and founder of Kickin’ It for Kyler. Mrs. Lopez spoke candidly about her family’s experience with suicide and her advocacy work around prevention. Her message emphasized hope, awareness, and the importance of reaching out for help, reminding students that their voices and actions matter.
Encouragement in the Hallways
Later that afternoon, S.P.E.A.K. students put their compassion into action by creating a campus-wide “Take a Word of Encouragement” project. Students wrote uplifting messages and posted them on six whiteboards throughout the hallways, offering peers the chance to take a positive note whenever they needed a boost. This simple act sparked smiles and connection across the school community.
From education to emotional support, S.P.E.A.K. continues to empower youth leaders to make Halifax High School a safer, healthier, and more connected place to learn. Southside Behavioral Health is honored to support their work.
If you are a HCHS student who is interested in joining S.P.E.A.K., speak with Kim Gordon or email her at kgordon@halifax.k12.va.us