— In response to pandemic-related stress, The Region One Education Service Center (ESC) GEAR UP: Pathways to the Future! Project held the Educator Mental Health Conference Thursday, Jan. 12 to promote mental health and self-care among over 150 GEAR UP campus teachers, counselors, social workers and administrators.Participants explored critical mental health topics, such as distress tolerance, nutrition, self-care and self-reflection through art.“The sessions presented to us today were a breath of fresh air amid the stress and excitement of starting the spring semester,” said Victor Ayala, 7th grade special education teacher at Sharyland North Jr. High. “The art activity and ...