Caring Enough to Speak Up: Conversations About Health and Choices at Walker

The Walker School recently welcomed Stephanie Haines, Lead Prevention Specialist with the Soundcheck Prevention Network, for thoughtful conversations with parents, Middle School students and Upper School students about prevention, decision-making and the role relationships play in staying healthy.

Soundcheck Prevention Network, is a non-profit substance misuse prevention organization. With Upper School students, Haines shared a personal story from her own adolescence, one that might have turned out differently had a friend spoken up and asked a hard question. Without placing blame, she invited students to reflect honestly: Have you ever known a friend was doing something that wasn’t good for them? Did you say something or stay quiet? Many students recognized how difficult it can be to speak up, even when your intentions are good.

Haines encouraged students to approach these moments with curiosity rather than assumption. What is the kindest thing to do for a friend, even if you’re the only one willing to speak up? What does it look like to say, “Are you sure this is a good idea?” or “Can you help me understand your thinking?” Framed this way, speaking up becomes an act of care, treating friends with dignity, honesty and kindness, three of Walker’s core values.

With Middle School students, the focus was on staying healthy and making good choices. Haines helped students understand what a drug is, anything that changes how the mind or body works, and talked about substances they may encounter as they get older, including alcohol, nicotine and cannabis. She also addressed behaviors that can become addictive, such as excessive gaming or social media use, and why developing brains are especially vulnerable.

Haines also met with parents for an open, practical conversation about partnership and prevention. She reminded parents that their influence matters well into adolescence and shared simple, concrete ways families can support their children, including communicating openly, modeling healthy behaviors, staying informed and helping children practice decision-making before challenging situations arise. Parents also left with conversation starters designed to make these discussions feel more natural and less intimidating.

Haines’ visit reflects Walker’s commitment to supporting the health, development and well-being of our students through education, relationships and shared responsibility.