In September 2024, the Brainerd School Board unanimously approved allowing Brainerd Public Schools’ Student Support Services Committee to explore the creation of a Wellness Task Force. Student success is dependent on a school community that supports the health and wellbeing of its people. School districts that take a coordinated approach to wellness see reduced absenteeism, fewer behavioral incidences, stronger staff retention and positive learning environments. This task force brought together educators and community partners committed to supporting the wellbeing of both students and staff across the district.
Our current members are:
Michelle Brekken — School Board member, Brainerd Public SchoolsKari Ross — Executive Director of Schools, Brainerd Public SchoolsChristina Lundgren — Director of Teaching and Learning, Brainerd Public SchoolsShelly Munoz — STEM Curriculum Coordinator, Brainerd Public SchoolsAllison Bullard — High School Counselor, Brainerd Public SchoolsAllison VanVliet — Family Liaison Coordinator, Brainerd Public SchoolsSarah Smith — Smiles for JakeMike Schmidt — Smiles for JakeBrian Andrews — Lakes Area Restorative Justice ProjectRena Bolt — Essentia Health/Crow Wing EnergizedJennifer Lowe — Cuyuna Regional Medical Center/Smiles for Jake
Task force goals:
Raise mental health awareness among students, staff and families.Improve access to mental health resources and support systems.Reduce stigma surrounding mental health within the school and broader community.Train staff and peer leaders to recognize early signs of mental health concerns and provide initial support.Foster a culture of wellness that prioritizes emotional, social and mental well-being.
Brainerd Public Schools Wellness Task Force has made strides in promoting mental well-being, reducing stigma and creating supportive school environments for students and staff. Guided by a strategic plan focused on awareness, access to resources, staff training, and student voice, several key initiatives have been launched
Notable initiatives:
Smiles for Jake Smile Bots were installed on every student and staff Chromebook to provide immediate access to support, along with advocacy training provided to four BPS staff members.Project 11 was implemented in Forestview Middle School health classes.Tanner Clark Speaking Event at Brainerd High School.Welcome High 5s at Brainerd High School and Forestview Middle School, greeting students with positive interactions.Teacher Ambassador and Advocacy Training to strengthen adult support systems within schools.In partnership with Smiles for Jake, Forestview Middle School launched the Smile Club. This student-led space fosters belonging, kindness, and peer support — giving students a place to build connections and look out for one another in meaningful ways.
The Brainerd Public Schools Wellness Task Force is committed to fostering a culture of wellness that prioritizes emotional, social and mental wellbeing.
About Crow Wing Energized:
Mission: Crow Wing Energized was founded to “Improve health and wellness in our community by making the healthy choice the easy choice.” Collaboration: We believe health is best improved when we work together, which is why we highlight other organizations and programs in our Midweek Motivator article. Resources: Our goal is to connect readers to services, events, organizations, and resources that promote healthy living and productive workplaces. Learn More: Visit
to explore upcoming classes and events. Stay Connected: Follow Crow Wing Energized on Facebook.