[HSGuardian] Do it for Daniel Assembly Today

['Julia McBride' via HS Guardian]

PCHS Parents & Guardians, 

Today, our school community came together for a presentation from Jeff Olson, entitled "Do it for Daniel." Jeff (and his wife) drove down from Ishpeming, MI (through quite the winter storm) to share their story with us. Mr. Olson, a recently retired teacher and coach, spoke about their son Daniel’s experience with anxiety and depression, and the heartbreaking loss of his life to suicide.

Mr. Olson's presentation centered around the fact that mental illness is a medical illness that requires treatment. He spoke about the importance of seeking help when experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, just like you would for a broken bone or the flu. He gave a vivid picture of what depression looks and feels like, and he expressed how important it is to move beyond the stigma of mental illness so that we can talk openly about it and ensure people get the help they need. 

We are incredibly proud of our students. They demonstrated empathy, maturity, and care for one another, checking in on peers, reaching out to adults, and by being a wonderfully respectful audience.

We also want you to know that your children were deeply supported throughout this experience. Our staff prepared intentionally for today, and during the presentation, adults were actively monitoring, supporting, and responding to student needs. We also had multiple staffed support spaces available in the Counseling Office, Pirate Union, and Main Office for any student who needed a break, someone to talk to, or additional care. After the assembly, staff facilitated thoughtful, compassionate conversations to help students process what they heard and felt.

Many students were impacted by today's presentation. We recognize that experiences like this can stay with students in different ways. Your partnership is essential, and we encourage you to continue the conversation at home. A simple check-in can go a long way. You might ask:

• What stood out to you today?

• How are you feeling after the presentation?

• Is there anything you’re still thinking or wondering about?

For additional support, we encourage you to explore the Do it for Daniel website.

If your child would benefit from additional support, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our counseling team is here for both students and families, and we are always ready to partner with you.

Thank you for trusting us with your children and for continuing to walk alongside us in supporting their well-being.

Julia McBride

Principal, Pinckney Community High School

10255 Dexter-Pinckney Rd, Pinckney, MI 48169

810-225-5500