Newport School of Innovation’s Guest Speaker Series is back by popular demand, bringing engaging and meaningful presentations to our students once again this school year. The series kicked off with an important presentation on suicide prevention and anti-bullying led by Mrs. Katie Bruening, representing 1in5, a Cincinnati, Ohio-based organization dedicated to promoting mental wellness and preventing suicide. The organization works to erase the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourages individuals to view mental health as an important part of overall well-being.

Mrs. Bruening also emphasized the importance of creating open, honest conversations about mental health so that students feel comfortable seeking support when they need it. The name 1in5 reflects the statistic that approximately one in five people live with a mental health condition, with that number reaching as high as one in three among youth. Through education, conversation, and connection, the presentation encouraged students to look out for one another and to understand that asking for help is a sign of strength.