Issue link: http://pefpages.uberflip.com/i/1520832
When you first meet Sydney Iravanchy in person, you can't help but notice her grace, intellect and articulate demeanor. Sydney, a PEF Ambassador for the last 2 years, is a senior at Peninsula High School. In addition to managing her classes and homework, she invests a considerable amount of her time in addressing student mental health issues, showcasing her profound commitment to the welfare of her peers. L I G H T H O U S E S P O T L I G H T . . . Championing Mental Health Awareness with Passion and Purpose Sydney Iravancy, Senior at Peninsula HIgh School "I have been working on ways to get other students in our district aware of allcove," said Sydney. "In a world where the demands on high school students seem to intensify by the day, it's crucial to recognize and prioritize our mental well-being. Recently, she achieved certification as an allcove Teen Mental Health First Aider, demonstrating her ability to identify signs of mental health struggles and crisis in adolescents. allcove, a facility in Redondo Beach offering complimentary mental health services for students, fosters an environment where young individuals (ages 12-25 from the South Bay) can both receive assistance and engage with their peers on their own terms. In addition to therapy, allcove offers physical health services, education and career assistance, substance abuse help and more. Sydney, the current PVPUSD Student Board Member, recently gave a report at the Board of Education meeting in addition to speaking at a PTSA leadership meeting. "Young individuals often experience stress, and it's essential for them to understand that their value isn't solely determined by grades," said Sydney. "We must not overlook the silent struggles of our high school students." Sydney is also part of the Sage Committee Group at Peninsula High School. This group strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health concerns and promote the normalization of seeking therapy. With Sydney's remarkable achievements serving as a beacon of hope, the world is not only witnessing excellence today but is also poised for a brighter and more promising future.