Navigating the Changing Landscape of Adolescence: Implications for UTS and Families

I look forward to having a compassionate and timely conversation with UTS families this evening about the growing tensions faced by today’s youth and what we as educators and parents can do to help.

Now seems like a challenging time in history to be young with an ongoing youth mental crisis in Canada, the impact of social media and the looming threat of climate change, all of which can negatively influence students’ sense of wellness  and their engagement at school.

Across North America and all types of school systems, students are showing similar patterns: more frequent absenteeism, increased feelings of isolation, reduced social engagement, and a declining connection to school spirit and community life.

For ambitious UTS students, the challenges can be heightened as they strive for perfectionism in their academic and social lives. Managing the tension between students’ drive  and their personal well-being can become an issue.

Together, we’ll explore what’s happening, why it matters and how we can respond. Neither schools nor parents can solve these issues on their own. More than ever, partnerships between education institutions and families are the key to finding solutions that make a difference for our youth.

This event offers a space for families to come together, share concerns, and reaffirm our shared commitment to supporting our children in leading vibrant, connected and meaningful school lives.

By understanding the unique challenges faced by our students, as well as the broader landscape for our children today, we are better able to give them the support they need to be happy and successful as students and in life. 

Tonight, we look forward to learning more from you about your concerns and observations of your children, and will continue to use your insight to inform the UTS education curriculum and co-curricular programs going forward. I look forward to our discussion this evening.