Student Support
Students who are talented and gifted in math and science are unique individuals who bring a variety of attributes and personal characteristics to the academic environment at IMSA. We recognize and support the notion that talented and gifted students are a special population whose needs and desires are different from those of the general population of high school students. To this end, the focus of the counselors is to address the psychological and social needs of our students within the context of research and experience from the field of gifted education. We are committed to the students’ personal, social, and intellectual growth, as well as their adjustment to and engagement with the IMSA community. Students are assisted with identifying and working through personal barriers, normal developmental issues, stressors, and clinical problems that could impede academic success.
Mental Health Days (MHD)
Illinois law allows K-12 students to take up to five mental health days each school year. Mental Health Days give students time away from academic and extracurricular responsibilities to focus on their emotional well-being.
If students would like to take a Mental Health Day, they should talk with their parent/guardian and Resident Counselor. Students must complete the Mental Health Day form by the day or evening before their planned Mental Health Day.
What to expect on a Mental Health Day
- Check in with a counselor. You will receive an email with a designated time to check in with a school counselor. If you would like additional support, email counseling@imsa.edu to request another meeting.
- Stay on campus or go home. If you remain on campus, you must stay in the main building. You may spend time in the IRC, Mental Health Lounge (A108), Fitness Center, The Hub, Pride Rock, IN2, Cafeteria (during meal times) or Relaxation Room. You may also go home to spend time with family.
- Respect the campus environment. Students staying on campus should be mindful of noise and help maintain a quiet, respectful environment.
- Get permission for outdoor activities after 3 p.m. Students must receive permission from Residence Life staff before going outside or taking a walking trip after 3 p.m.
- Take a break from extracurricular activities. Mental Health Days are meant to take time away from the responsibilities of clubs and athletics. Students may not attend club meetings, campus events, or athletics on a Mental Health Day, including as a spectator.
- Check in with your Resident Counselor. Students are expected to check in with their RC once during the evening of the Mental Health Day.
Students who do not follow these expectations may receive an unexcused absence for the day.
If students request two Mental Health Days during the same academic week, their parent/guardian will be asked to pick them up. Students will also work with a school counselor to identify strategies and support for balancing academics and extracurriculars.