Our Minds Matter: Student Mental Health in DC Public Charter Schools

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A Student-Led Approach to Mental Health in DC Public Charter Schools

March 4, 2026

Across DC Public Charter Schools, students are taking the lead on mental health support through Our Minds Matter, a peer-led club that creates space for honest conversation, connection, and care.

This school year, nine DC Public Charter Schools host Our Minds Matter clubs, including Capital City PCS, DC International School, Girls Global Academy PCS, Kingsman Academy PCS, KIPP DC - Legacy College PCS, KIPP DC- College Prep PCS, Maya Angelou PCS, Thurgood Marshall Academy PCS, and Washington Leadership Academy PCS.

Our Minds Matter was created by Lauren Anderson in 2012 in honor of her brother Josh, who died by suicide at age 17. What began with one staff member and five schools has grown into a leader in teen mental health programming across the DC region. The model is research-driven and powered by students themselves.

“Our Minds Matter is built on the belief that teens must and deserve to have a seat at the table when it comes to their mental health,” said Ramona Plummer, Our Minds Matter Senior Program Manager. “By using a peer-led model, students empower themselves and each other to connect, be vulnerable, and build trust in ways that feel real and relevant to their lives.”

Through club meetings and school-wide campaigns, students strengthen protective factors known to reduce the risk of suicide ideation, including social connection, prosocial skills, self-care, healthy habits, and help-seeking behavior. Many clubs see themselves as an extension of their school wellness teams, helping bridge trust between students and clinicians who often serve as adult leaders. Students say the impact is deeply personal.

“My favorite part about being in my [Our Minds Matter] OMM club was building new bonds and having someone I can trust to share my thoughts with”. Another shared, “[Our Minds Matter] has impacted my mental health by being more accepting of my own feelings and emotions, and knowing it’s okay to not be okay.” Others describe the club as a place where they feel understood, supported, and less alone.

While stigma around mental health remains a challenge, particularly in marginalized communities, Our Minds Matter shows the power of student voice in creating safer and more supportive school environments.

DC Public Charter Schools serving grades 9 through 12 can apply now to start a club. To learn more or preview activities, visit ourmindsmatter.org/start-a-club.