Manor ISD has been honored as one of just six school districts nationwide to receive the prestigious National Mental Health Innovator Award from Daybreak Health, a leading K-12 mental health provider. Manor ISD was specifically recognized as the Community Collaborator of the Year.
The Community Collaborator of the Year Award celebrates Manor ISD’s dedication to the Whole Child and its commitment to forging strong connections with families and partners. Through the district's Whole Child, Community Partnerships & Engagement Department, Manor ISD ensures equitable access to mental health services and holistic student support.
“Manor ISD’s school systems are an integral part of the communities we serve,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Sormani. “There should never be a difference between us and them. These mental health supports are part of our school systems and will continue to be so for now and for good.”
Manor ISD’s innovative Whole Child Department has implemented comprehensive mental health initiatives, including school climate surveys, mental health screenings, district-wide mental health fairs, and teletherapy services. This approach ensures that no student is left without the support they need, fostering a safe, nurturing environment for the district’s almost 10,000 students.
With the support of its department’s leadership, the department’s efforts have built a robust system to address the well-being of the entire school community. Dr. Sormani and the Whole Child team work tirelessly to remove barriers to mental health access, ensuring that every student can thrive academically and personally.
Daybreak Health CEO Alex Alvarado praised the district's efforts: “Our Mental Health Innovators of the Year are bridging the gap in mental health services. Manor ISD’s commitment to supporting both students and families in their community is a testament to their leadership in tackling the youth mental health crisis.”
Manor ISD joins other award recipients from across the nation, including districts in North Carolina, California, and Illinois, who were recognized for their excellence in mental health care, culturally competent services, and community partnerships.