secondary priority. We need to recognize the fact that
this pandemic has caused our kids and young adults to
experience trauma. And, that many of them were already
experiencing trauma from racism, poverty, food
insecurity, or abuse.”
Amy Kennedy
During my many years as a teacher here in New Jersey, I saw first-hand how a child’s mental health and mental health literacy impacts their ability to learn and grow—not only in the classroom, but in life.
“As a mom of five, an educator and a mental health advocate, Amy understands the challenges facing her community and is ready to take them on.”
Amy is a tireless advocate for school-based mental health supports and services and we are proud to have her on the board of Mental Health America. As an educator and a mother, Amy understands that there is no health without mental health, especially for children and young adults.
Amy Kennedy is committed to combating the mental health crisis around the country. I know Amy shares my belief that loneliness should be a public health issue and that now, more than ever, we need to find ways to make human connection a priority.
“As the daughter of educators, a former public school teacher, a mental health advocate and the mother of five, Amy understands the struggles that AFT members and all the people of South Jersey are facing. Amy is committed to fighting for public schools and the teachers, students, education support professionals and working families that rely on them."
"Our members know an advocate when they see one, and that’s what they see in Amy Kennedy.”
The Kings and the Kennedys have always believed that every American should be able to have justice, and for generations we’ve stood side by side in that fight. Now, I am standing on Amy’s side because she believes that all communities must be treated equally.
Amy Kennedy is a powerful force in education. She understands the important ties between social emotional learning and mental health. She utilizes her unique skill set and experience to create critical lessons that can be used all around the world. Amy’s advocacy and knowledge will continue to shape changes in education for the future.
I have always admired Amy’s passionate advocacy for school-based mental health. As a former public school teacher, Amy understands that social and emotional learning and problem solving skill development are critical to the success of our students and our communities.
Conversations with Amy
Paul Gionfriddo
John MacPhee
Senator Whitehouse
Surgeon General Vivek Murthy
Congressman David Cicilline
Maria Shriver
Through strategies like social-emotional learning and integrated systems of mental health care that meet students where they are, we have the power to improve educational, emotional, and health outcomes for everyone.
Boards
Amy is proud to serve on the boards of the following organizations:
