SEW Reminds Students Their Lives Have Purpose

Written by Greisy Tellez, High School Counselor

During Spiritual Emphasis Week and Special Emphasis Week (SEW), guest speakers Mark Tamaleaa and Jesus Vera spoke to middle and high school students about suicide prevention under the theme More Than a Moment: A Lasting Impact in a Fading World. Held on campus during chapel and assembly gatherings, the sessions brought the school community together to promote mental health awareness through both spiritual encouragement and practical guidance.

Drawing from personal experiences, faith-informed perspectives, and research-based strategies, the speakers helped students better understand how to recognize signs of emotional distress, support peers with compassion, and seek help from trusted adults when needed. They emphasized the importance of caring for one another and creating a community where students feel safe to speak up and ask for support.

Throughout the week, students were reminded that every life carries inherent value, dignity, and purpose. The speakers encouraged them to build resilience, cultivate meaningful relationships, and deepen their faith. Most importantly, they affirmed that difficult moments do not define a person’s future or diminish the lasting impact each individual can have on the world around them.