If you’ve ever wondered how schools support students beyond academics, meet Jill Wilson-Zahn. She’s a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who supports students at Highline, Mount Rainier, Evergreen, Pacific and Cascade. Her focus? Guiding students through emotions and life’s tougher moments.
"Each day I have a team meeting with the teachers I'm working with to go over all the students we support," she said. "What are their emotional needs? What are we working on? So I kind of know how to approach students for the day."
Jill is part of the emotional and behavioral classroom team. Her work blends counseling, group support, and partnerships with teachers and families. She’s often supportin students for years, building trust and consistency from middle school through high school.
The Weight Our Students Carry
Anxiety is everywhere, Jill says. It’s the most common issue she sees among students—especially social anxiety and low self-esteem.
"Social anxiety, self-esteem issues, feeling disconnected from peers... it's complex," she shared.
Add the weight of global and family stressors—like housing insecurity, uncertainty about the future, and the constant pressure of social media—and you get a picture of just how heavy it can feel to be a student today. For many students, school is more than a place to learn. It’s their safest space.
"One student told me she's just happy to come to school," Jill said.
A Circle of Support
Jill's job is about relationships. She creates safe, judgment-free spaces where students can be honest. She brings in families and trusted adults.
For students to thrive, they need a village. Jill works with teachers, counselors and families to help build that network.
So what can students do to care for themselves?
Students work with Jill to create what she calls a "self-care menu"—small, personal practices they can turn to each day:
- Get outside or go for a walk
- Listen to music that feels good
- Put the phone down and be present
- Talk to someone you trust
- Try art or journaling
- Move your body in a way that feels good
"You're more likely to use it if it's something you've created," Jill said. "It has to work for you."
She encourages both students and staff to find what fills them up—and make it a routine.
"For me, it's swimming in the Puget Sound, sound healing, movement," she said. "Self-care doesn’t have to look the same for everyone."
A Message for Families
Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to talk openly about wellness.
"When students really learn to like who they are and live in what's true for them—those are the moments I live for."
Her message to families is simple:
"All emotions are important. Be curious about them. Learn from them. And above all, be kind and gentle with yourself."
If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to a trusted adult or school counselor. You're not alone.