May Spotlights: Turn-Key Communications for Administrators
May offers many opportunities to recognize the numerous professionals, students, and communities that contribute to thriving school environments. This month highlights both student-centered awareness initiatives, the diverse communities and lived experiences they embody, as well as the dedicated school professionals who support learning, communication, wellness, and belonging every day. With so many reasons to celebrate, you may choose to celebrate all or curate your list to best reflect your school community.
Key May celebrations include:
- Mental Health Awareness Month
- Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month
- Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month
- National Mobility Awareness Month
- National Trauma Awareness Month
- Teacher Appreciation Week
- National School Nurse Day/Week
- National Speech-Language-Hearing Month
- School Nutrition Employee Appreciation Month
Below are ready-to-share messages and resources you can easily include in newsletters, team communications, or social media posts to celebrate the students and staff who make our schools stronger. You’ll also find out our May Communications Scheduling Guide to take the guesswork out of when, where, and what to share this month.
Student and Community-Centered Celebrations…
Mental Health Awareness Month
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
Mental Health Awareness Month highlights the importance of supporting student and staff well-being in our schools. Mental health plays a critical role in learning, relationships, and overall success, and schools are key environments for fostering connection and support. This month offers an opportunity to strengthen practices that promote resilience, reduce stigma, and ensure all students feel safe and supported.
Ideas for Sharing…
Include these scripts and activity resources in your email, newsletter, or social media post:
- Attend & Learn (1 hour): Expand your understanding of youth mental health through continuing education opportunities, like this webinar sponsored by the Calm app.
- Download & Share (15 mins): Utilize SAHMSA’s 2026 Toolkit of social media graphics, printable posters, and learning resources.
Idea for Posting…
May is #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth — a time to prioritize well-being, connection, and support in our schools. Together, we can create environments where every student feels safe, seen, and supported. #StudentWellness #SchoolMentalHealth #BelongingMatters
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrates the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of AAPI communities. This is an opportunity for schools to elevate diverse perspectives, expand representation in learning, and foster inclusive environments. Recognizing AAPI heritage helps ensure all students feel seen, valued, and connected.
Ideas for Sharing…
Include these scripts and activity resources in your email, newsletter, or social media post:
- Read & Explore (15 mins): The Smithsonian Institute offers AAPI resources and online exhibits to celebrate this month.
- Learn & Discuss (15 mins): PBS hosts the Asian American Advocacy Fund’s curriculum on the ABCs of AAPI to learn about various cultures.
Idea for Posting…
May is #AAPIHeritageMonth — a time to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. Representation and inclusion help every student feel they belong. #InclusiveSchools #RepresentationMatters
National Trauma Awareness Month
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
National Trauma Awareness Month highlights the impact trauma can have on students’ learning, behavior, and overall well-being. Many students come to school with experiences that influence how they engage, regulate emotions, and build relationships. By strengthening trauma-informed practices, schools can create safe, predictable environments where all students can succeed.
Ideas for Sharing…
Include these scripts and activity resources in your email, newsletter, or social media post:
- Explore (15 mins): NAMI shares their School Resources to support student and adult learning to build safe, healthy schools.
- Complete & Discuss (20 mins): NAMI’s “Meet Little Monster” Activity is a resource to facilitate conversations around mental health with younger learners.
- Listen (17 mins): Mental Health Goes to School’s episode on Mental Health Goes to School: Top Tips for Student Well Being is a quick, informative listen for all.
Idea for Posting…
Creating safe, predictable, and supportive environments helps every student thrive. This #TraumaAwarenessMonth, we’re strengthening trauma-informed practices to support student well-being and success. #TraumaInformed #StudentWellbeing #InclusiveSchools
National Mobility Awareness Month
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
National Mobility Awareness Month highlights the importance of accessibility and independence for individuals with mobility challenges. In schools, this includes creating environments that support full participation in learning, activities, and school life. This month encourages reflection on how inclusive design and practices remove barriers for students.
Ideas for Sharing…
- Read & Reflect (12 mins): This blog highlights 5 strategies to consider for building inclusive classroom spaces for students with varying mobility needs.
Idea for Posting…
Accessible schools create opportunities for all students to participate, engage, and succeed. This #MobilityAwarenessMonth, we’re reflecting on how inclusive environments support every learner. #AccessibilityMatters #InclusiveSchools
Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month raises awareness of a genetic condition that can impact students’ health and daily school experiences. Students with CF may require additional supports to fully participate in learning and school activities. Increasing awareness helps build understanding and ensures schools are equipped to support all learners.
Ideas for Sharing…
Include these scripts and activity resources in your email, newsletter, or social media post:
- Explore & Apply (15 mins): Everyday CF’s page highlights school-specific resources for supporting students with CF.
Idea for Posting…
Supporting students with diverse health needs helps every learner succeed. This month, we raise awareness and continue building inclusive environments for all. #CFAwareness #StudentSupport #InclusiveEducation
Profession-Centered Celebrations...
Teacher Appreciation Week: May 5th-9th
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
Teacher Appreciation Week recognizes the dedication, expertise, and impact educators bring to their classrooms each day. Teachers foster learning, build relationships, and create environments where students can grow academically and socially. Their work is foundational to strong, supportive school communities.
Ideas for Sharing…
Include these scripts and activity resources in your email, newsletter, or social media post:
- Post & Share (5 mins): Use this free DECS social media or printable graphic to celebrate your teacher this month.
- Get Inspired (12 mins): Explore creative and meaningful ways to highlight and shout out the incredible educators in your school.
Idea for Posting…
This week, we celebrate the educators who inspire, support, and empower students every day. Thank you for the difference you make in the lives of learners and communities. #TeacherAppreciationWeek #ThankATeacher #EducationHeroes
National School Nurse Day: May 7th
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
School nurses play a vital role in supporting student health, safety, and readiness to learn. They manage daily care, respond to health needs, and partner with families and staff to support student well-being. Their presence helps ensure students can fully engage in the school day.
Ideas for Sharing…
Include these scripts and activity resources in your email, newsletter, or social media post:
- Download & Share (15 mins): Customize and share this proclamation template to highlight the valuable role of school nurses in schools.
- Create & Thank (10 mins): Have students decorate and send a note to let your nurses know how much they are appreciated.
Idea for Posting…
Thank you to our school nurses who care for the health, safety, and well-being of students every day. Your work helps ensure students are ready to learn and thrive. #SchoolNurseDay #StudentHealth #SchoolCommunity
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month highlights the importance of communication in student learning and development. Speech-language pathologists support students in building the skills needed for academic success, social interaction, and self-expression. Their work helps ensure all students can access learning and connect with others.
Ideas for Sharing…
- Explore & Inspire (10 mins): Check out these ideas for celebrating and recognizing your SLP team members.
- Download & Share (5 mins): ASHA’s free social media toolkit with shareable banners, images, and more.
Ideas for Posting…
Communication is at the heart of learning and connection. Thank you to our speech-language pathologists for helping students find and use their voices. #SLPMonth #StudentSupport #CommunicationMatters
School Nutrition Employee Appreciation Month
Turn-Key Message for Your Communications…
School nutrition professionals play an essential role in supporting student health and readiness to learn. By providing nutritious meals and creating welcoming environments, they help students stay focused and energized throughout the day. Their work contributes directly to student success and well-being.
Ideas for Sharing…
- Learn & Celebrate (15 mins): Read about the positive impact that school nutrition services and programs can have on student health and learning.
- Sign-Up & Share (2 mins): Enter your information to access a social media and campaign toolkit to print, post, and celebrate your nutrition team.
Ideas for Posting…
Behind every successful school day is a team helping students stay nourished and ready to learn. Thank you to our school nutrition professionals for all you do! #SchoolNutrition #StudentWellness #ThankYou
