In this inspiring episode, we sit down with school psychologist Kay Kelly to explore her unique journey within the educational system and how she’s thinking outside the box to create real-world opportunities for students. Kay shares stories from her experiences in various school settings and how those shaped her passion for integrating mental health support with practical, hands-on learning.
This episode is a powerful look at the intersection of mental health, education, and innovation, and how one educator is helping schools create opportunities that last far beyond the classroom.
Quotables
**All quotes are from the interviewee**
"I think connecting with kids... It does feel different, but in some ways you still do the same things we want to have genuine connections with them, actively listen... I think theres a lot to hear in their lived experience."
"The foundations haven't really changed that much, but the way we engaged with them might be a little different."
"There's a lot of benefit in having those virtual communities where you can be a sounding board and provide those resources."
About Kay Kelly
Kay Kelly is a dedicated and experienced School Psychologist with a proven track record in educational settings. Her expertise spans diagnostic assessment, counseling, intervention, and advocacy, and she is passionate about supporting students across all levels and settings. She is skilled in crisis response, collaborating within multi-disciplinary teams, and ensuring compliance with educational regulations to improve student outcomes.
As a life-long learner, Kay Kelly emphasizes a solution-focused approach, working within a problem-solving framework to support students’ emotional and academic development. Over the years, she's had the opportunity to lead and contribute to several impactful initiatives, including collaborating with the University of Kansas to help develop Multi-Tier Systems of Support and securing grants for innovative programs, such as a self-sustaining, student-run car detailing service at the high school where she worked. This program provided students in the life skills program with hands-on, real-world experience.
Kay Kelly remains committed to creating positive, lasting impacts on students, families, and educators through her current position with eLuma, a tele school-based company that provides access to high quality mental health providers.
