On Monday, May 4, Rockland Middle/HIgh School welcomed John Tessitore and Kevin McMahon of the JCK Foundation for an assembly and breakout sessions focusing on mental health.

The JCK Foundation was formed in memory of John Clever Kelly, Mr. Tessitore’s friend and mentor, who lost his battle with OCD shortly before his 25th birthday. The foundation’s mission is to improve the state of youth mental health.

“Our nation is undergoing a mental health crisis,” MS/HS Principal Adam Larson said. “We, as a school, must not only educate our students academically, but we must also give them a solid education on keeping themselves healthy physically and mentally. That is why it was important to bring JCK Foundations’ Student Legends Program to Rockland.”

Through its Student Legends Program, the JCK Foundation uses personal stories as well as interactive activities to “create a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel empowered to embrace their mental health, connect with others, and foster a culture of empathy and understanding,” according to the Legends Program website.

 During the assembly, Mr. Tessitore and Mr. McMahon told their stories of working through depression, as well as OCD for Mr. Tessitore. They focused on the need to be empathic to others who may be dealing with mental health issues, being vulnerable by being willing to talk about one’s own struggles, and practicing self-acceptance.