Frenship ISD’s January Mental Health Minute highlights the theme of Optimism and challenges students and families to practice goal setting together. This month, students are encouraged to identify three personal goals for the semester, then choose one goal and create a clear plan outlining the steps needed to achieve it. 

Families are invited to take part in the challenge as well by identifying three goals they want to accomplish together during the year. After selecting one goal, families are encouraged to work together to create a step-by-step plan that supports communication, accountability, and shared progress. 

Memorial High School Counselor, Tonya Canchola, shares that an optimistic mindset plays a key role in how students navigate stress and change throughout the school year. 

“An optimistic mindset can help students navigate the stress, challenges, and changes they face throughout the school year,” said Canchola. “By viewing setbacks as temporary and manageable, optimistic students cope with stress more effectively and maintain stronger emotional well-being.” 

Canchola explains that optimism also increases motivation and persistence, helping students remain engaged during difficult assignments and recover more quickly from setbacks. She adds that optimism supports adaptability during transitions, such as adjusting to new classes, teachers, or routines, by encouraging students to view change as an opportunity for growth. 

“Optimism encourages adaptability during transitions—such as new classes, teachers, or routines—by helping students see change as an opportunity for growth,” said Canchola. “It also strengthens resilience and problem-solving skills, enabling students to approach obstacles with confidence and creativity.” 

While optimism is a powerful tool, Canchola notes that it can be difficult for students to maintain when they feel overwhelmed or discouraged. However, she emphasizes that optimism is not an inherent trait; it is a skill that can be developed over time. 

“Students can lose optimism when they feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsure of themselves—but they can rebuild it by breaking tasks down, seeking support, practicing positive thinking, and focusing on progress rather than perfection,” said Canchola. “Optimism isn’t something you’re born with; it’s a skill you can strengthen over time.” 

To reinforce this skill, January’s Mental Health Minute Challenge centers on goal setting. Students are encouraged to identify three goals for the semester, then select one goal and create a plan to achieve it. 

“Setting goals helps students feel more optimistic because it gives them something clear and achievable to work toward,” said Canchola. “When students break big tasks into smaller steps, they can see their progress, which builds confidence and makes challenges feel less overwhelming.” 

She explains that recognizing progress, no matter how small, helps students stay hopeful and believe in their ability to succeed. 

“Each goal they reach—no matter how small—shows them that their effort pays off, helping them stay positive even when school gets tough,” said Canchola. 

Families are also encouraged to participate by creating shared goals at home. Parents and guardians can support students by discussing interests, helping set realistic goals, breaking goals into steps, checking in regularly, and celebrating progress along the way. 

“With consistent encouragement, students learn that effort leads to improvement, building confidence, resilience, and optimism,” said Canchola. 

When students begin to feel discouraged or tempted to give up, Canchola encourages them tp remember that growth often happens gradually. 

“Progress isn’t always obvious, but it’s happening every time they take a step forward,” said Canchola. “They don’t have to be perfect—they just need to keep going.” 

She encourages students to continue showing up for themselves and trusting in their ability to achieve their goals. 

“Every challenge they face is helping them grow stronger, even if it doesn’t feel like it in the moment,” said Canchola. “They are capable of so much more than they realize.” 

By fostering optimism through goal setting, family support, and intentional encouragement, Frenship ISD continues to prioritize student mental wellness and equip students with lifelong skills for resilience, confidence, and personal growth. 

To learn more about Frenship ISD counseling services and student resources, click here.