The mental health work group described near‑ and longer‑term recommendations to expand mental-health supports for early‑childhood professionals across Kansas.

Hillary Kane, representing the Kansas Parent Teacher Association, told the panel the group reviewed workforce well‑being findings, considered the eight dimensions of wellness and invited mental-health partner Jessica Mostafa of Wild Hope to advise on clinical and implementation considerations. The group identified three systems where targeted change could have more impact: affordable and accessible substitute services, a statewide reflective‑supervision model with training and implementation supports, and better access to quality mental‑health therapy services for professionals.

For immediate next steps, the group recommended a mental‑health supports landing page housed in a location that professionals already use, and a shared messaging effort so partnering agencies normalize that everyone has mental health needs. Kane said the group is exploring a possible fall convening and proposed producing a short video series (“Mental Health Moments”/“Mental Health Matters”) to provide practical strategies for adult resiliency and to explain how to access mental‑health services in Kansas. Longer-term goals include an educator toolkit for managing in‑the‑moment stress and model policy and procedure templates for workplaces.

Kane noted the work will require partner agencies and funding to scale. She said KUCPPR (the research partner) has indicated possible support. "We started looking at the eight dimensions of wellness...and thinking about that, we were looking at all of these dimensions as important components for wellness for early childhood professionals," Kane said.

The panel did not vote on specific actions. The work group will continue planning, pursue partners for a landing site and explore funding and convening logistics.