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Happy Labor Day!

This Labor Day, we take a moment to recognize the hard work of people across the country—especially mobile farmworkers, whose labor often goes unseen but is essential to the food we eat and the communities we live in.

Labor Day is a reminder that the work they do is valuable, even if it isn’t always recognized. Farmworkers are part of a long history of laborers who have helped shape this country, and their story is important.

National Farm Safety and Health Week

Every year during the third week of September, we observe National Farm Safety and Health Week—a time to focus on staying safe while working in agriculture. For mobile youth working in the fields, this week is especially important.

Farm work is essential, but it can also be dangerous. Accidents happen in grain bins, on rural roads, and while using heavy equipment. In fact, nearly half of all farm-related deaths are caused by transportation incidents. That’s why this week highlights key safety topics like tractor safety, roadway awareness, and youth safety on farms.

It’s also a reminder for everyone to take care of their health. Long hours, heat, and physical labor can take a toll. Eating well, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and knowing when to ask for help are all part of staying safe on the job.

Farmworker safety matters—not just during this week, but every day. They are doing important work, and they deserve to do it safely!

MPEC will be holding a workshop on the implementation of distance education strategies for both state and local MEP programs on Wednesday, September 17th at 1:00 PM MST. This workshop is designed to provide resources, strategies and ideas for effective distance education and instruction for migratory students.

Please register in advance for this meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/hhceCoS8SpWywL-GDsExmw

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

National Suicide Prevention Month is a good time to talk openly about mental health and to remind each other that help is always available. For mobile youth working in agriculture, life can feel overwhelming—long hours, constant movement, and being away from familiar support systems can take a toll.

Your students might not always feel seen, but they need reminders that their lives matter. If you or someone you know is struggling with sadness, stress, or thoughts of giving up, remember that it is okay to ask for help. Talking to someone—a friend, a teacher, a counselor—can make a big difference.

Mental health is just as important as physical health and there is no shame in needing support.

If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988—free, confidential, and available 24/7 with support in both English and Spanish.

🔗 Learn more at National Day Calendar and nami.org/Find-Support

📞 Need help now? Call or text 988

September Is a Great Time for Personal Goal Setting

The practice of goal setting is an amazing tool to improve personal wellness! New Year’s resolutions are associated with January, but September is a wonderful time to reevaluate goals. For many, September represents a return to routine after summer break that can foster feelings of an exciting “fresh start”. Taking the time to intentionally set clear, obtainable goals is a great way to promote personal wellness.

Having focused goals can improve mental health because it gives people a sense of control over their lives, which can help decrease feelings of anxiety and depression. The SMART goal framework helps outline the characteristics of a “good goal”:

Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Time-bound

Please consider using iSOSY’s Goal Setting materials to facilitate discussions with your students and fellow staff members!