Erasing the stigma

Iola High students joined peers countywide in signing banners to promote mental health awareness.

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Local News

March 26, 2026 - 2:15 PM

From left, Mason Lampe, Ramon Ballin, Kyleigh Harper, Blayke Patterson and Lainey Oswald pose with the banner, featuring messages from around 120 students. Harper, Iola High School’s attendance secretary, is the sponsor for Mustangs for Mental Health. Photo by Tim Stauffer / Iola Register

Iola High School students signed a banner supporting mental health awareness Wednesday. The effort, coordinated by Mustangs for Mental Health, part of Zero Reasons Why Allen County, is designed to help create a supportive school culture. Travis Buck, a peer mentor lead with Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center, said approximately 120 students shared encouraging statements.

Over 90 middle and high school students from Marmaton Valley did the same Tuesday, using duct tape and sharpies to write short messages of support. Humboldt students completed their banner earlier this month, as reported by the Register.

Iola High School sophomore Justin McCowan and Mustangs for Mental Health sponsor Kyleigh Harper look over comments written by fellow students.Photo by Tim Stauffer / Iola Register
Zafirah Fajri, a senior at Marmaton Valley High School, crafts an uplifting message to fellow students Tuesday afternoon.Photo by Tim Stauffer / Iola Register

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