A New School, a Clear Vision
When Viera Middle School opened its doors in August 2024, the newest middle school in Brevard Public Schools, Principal Ms. McNutt brought a clear vision for school culture. Already familiar with Sources of Strength from a previous middle school, she and her team decided after the first semester to launch the program at Viera to center connection, belonging, and student leadership from the start.
“Sources of Strength has helped create a sense of community.” — Colton W., student
Student Voice & Peer Leaders at the Core
Viera trained ~19 student Peer Leaders and 2 Adult Advisors who jumped in right away to share positive, strengths-based messages with the school community. From day one, the emphasis wasn’t on scare tactics, it was on hope, help, and strengths.
“Made me make friends I never thought I’d be friends with… it’s super fun and worth it.” — Madison Z., Peer Leader
“Students feel more comfortable talking about mental health, and it’s become easier to reach out when someone’s going through a tough time.” — Janice, School Social Worker
Campaigns That Fit Viera
In their first semester with Sources of Strength, Peer Leaders and Advisors tailored activities to Viera’s context:
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- Incoming 6th-Grade Open House: A welcoming display and interactive activity to introduce families to strengths language.
- Thankfulness Campaign (Teacher Appreciation Week): Gratitude notes and shout-outs to build connection between students and staff.
- Viera-Specific Posters: Student-made visuals that reflect local identity and shared values.
- PBIS School-Wide Appreciation Day: Peer Leaders facilitated activities that aligned Sources of Strength with PBIS to reinforce a positive climate.
- Blue the Therapy Dog: Has been a huge hit for students and staff, tapping into some Strength through this charming fellow
“It draws so many positive people together who are willing to plan fun events! Students enjoyed the fun swag.” — Student response
From the counseling office: School Counselor Jenn Clark collected student reflections that echoed these themes: greater comfort naming feelings, more willingness to ask for help, and a growing sense of support among peers and adults. (Or, as one student put it: “Miss Clark is the best.”)
How Its Working
Sources of Strength pairs student voice with adult partnership. Peer Leaders aim to enhance belonging and normalize help-seeking; Adult Advisors create the spaces for students to lead safely and inclusively. Together they help Viera:
- Normalize conversations about mental health and asking for help
- Strengthen protective factors like Positive Friends, Family Support, and Healthy Activities
- Align strengths-based culture with existing frameworks like PBIS
“By helping people identify the things that will support their mental health… it’s hard, but it is worth it.” — Marissa S., student
Looking Ahead
Viera Middle School plans to continue building on early momentum expanding Peer Leader activities, deepening adult-student relationships, and weaving strengths language into everyday routines.
“We look forward to continuing Sources of Strength in the years to come.” — Janice, School Social Worker
