Episode 145 – The School-Community Liaison Program 2026/27 EditionEpisode 145 – The School-Community Liaison Program 2026/27 Edition
Keeping Ashland Healthy
(Record Date: September 11, 2026)It’s back-to-school time in Ashland County—and a successful school year is about more than books, homework, and grades. On the next Keeping Ashland Healthy, we’re talking with members of...
38:01•17 Sept 2026
Back-to-School Support: Inside Ashland’s School-Community Liaison Team
Episode Overview
- Liaisons focus on support and connection, not discipline or “fixing” children.
- Changes in behaviour, withdrawal, health complaints, grades, or attendance can signal a need for extra help.
- Emotional wellbeing and a sense of safety are essential foundations for academic success.
- Parents can reduce pressure by valuing effort over perfection and treating test results as guidance, not judgement.
- Early contact with a liaison can link families to counselling, mentoring, and practical help such as food, clothing, or transport.
“There’s a difference between expecting your best and expecting perfection.”
What drives someone to seek a school year that feels healthy, calm, and connected rather than chaotic? This episode of Keeping Ashland Healthy zooms in on Ashland County’s School-Community Liaison Programme and how it supports pupils, families, and school staff during the back-to-school rush. You’ll hear David Ross talk with liaisons Robin Hawkins (Crestview Schools), Christina Howman (Ashland Middle School), and Ted Lilly (Taft Intermediate) about what their role actually is – and just as importantly, what it isn’t.
As Robin puts it, they’re clear that “we are not disciplinarians… we’re there to support the parent,” while Ted jokes that his day can range from crisis support to tracking down clothing for a pupil. The conversation digs into the realities of September: tired kids trying to get back into routines, pupils with trauma showing up in the nurse’s office with very real stomach aches, and young people in foster care facing new schools, communities, and even families.
The liaisons share practical warning signs adults can watch for, like sudden withdrawal, sitting alone at break, slipping grades, or frequent absences. Mental health sits at the heart of the chat. The team stresses that emotional safety and a sense of belonging are essential before any child can focus on maths or reading.
Christina highlights the difference between “expecting your best and expecting perfection,” while Ted reminds parents that test scores are information to guide support, not a verdict on a child’s worth. You’ll also get concrete ideas: building simple home routines, setting boundaries around devices, listening instead of just fixing, and helping children find at least one trusted adult and one passion – whether that’s a sport, club, or mentoring relationship.
Perhaps the most reassuring line comes from Ted: “No problems too big. No problems too small.” If you or your child are struggling, this episode makes it clear there’s a team ready to help. Who could you help your child connect with this term?
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