By Dionne Meehan
A NEW well-being initiative at a secondary school in Milford is seeing students reconnect through music.
Open Mic Fridays was launched at Loreto Milford recently after teachers felt connections were being “lost” due to excessive screen time.
With mobile phones banned from the beginning of the school year, students now have the chance to showcase their talent by performing to hundreds every Friday.
Speaking to the Donegal News, Well-being Coordinator in Loreto Community School, Emma Black said music has many benefits.
“Music has been proven to reduce stress, elevate mood and build self-esteem with the students showcasing their talents,” she said.
By putting the call out to the whole school community, Emma said so far the response has been really positive.
“The mood in school has been fantastic, it elevates the mood.
“Friday is the beginning of the weekend and we have had lots more people getting in contact wanting to take part,” she said.
Speaking about the importance of the initiative, Emma said connecting and belonging is so important for positive mental health.
“It is to show all aspects of personality as well.
“The focus can be academic but it is to show that range of talents and skills and to connect across year groups.
“To see people enjoying the music that is being played I think it is vitally important.
“I think it is vital to have that holistic aspect to school life,” she said.
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