CMR recently received the results of the Youth Risk Behavior Survey from last year and, along with the data, a sharp wake-up call. Although many agree that the school is “a better place to learn and teach, where relationships lead to success,” the data showed that many students were either engaging in “risky behaviors” or struggling with mental and emotional health issues. The information was disseminated to staff and student government members with the expectation that the survey results would reach the rest of the student body and solutions would begin to rise to the surface.

The majority of these problems are not simple. These are not the issues that can be solved with an assembly or the implementation of new protocol. Many were around well before we entered high school, and unfortunately, some will prevail even after graduation caps have been thrown. What staff and students have agreed on, however, is that the first step to solving these problems starts with the students.

For better or for worse, students have a huge impact on each other each and every day. Whether consciously or subconsciously, each of us, from the first bell to 3:15, observe others’ actions, thoughts, and feelings. So if we want to see a change in our school, it isn’t feasible to rely on APs or teachers to do all the work. We, the students, are the most immediate and impactful connection to each other and the school’s sentiment.

Whether it be helping with Mental Health Awareness — a month-long endeavor championed by HOSA but also involving student government and Key Club — or reaching out to individual students, CMR relies on its student body to give the school its great reputation. We appreciate those Rustlers who look out for one another, who participate, and who stay up-to-date on these issues. We at the Stampede are right there with you, looking to provide solid coverage and raise awareness for those problems in need of solutions.