News
News
Latest news from UR Supporting Our Students
Melissa Heatly receives 2025 School Mental Health Champion Award
Monday, December 22, 2025
2025 School Mental Health Champion Award
We are proud to announce that Dr. Melissa Heatly recently received the 2025 School Mental Health Champion Award from the National Center for School Mental Health!
Heatly (pictured second from right), was recognized for her leadership, innovation, and vision in advancing school mental health. In its citation, the center cited Heatly’s statewide leadership in developing data-driven and equitable school mental health systems that expand access, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and improve outcomes for children and families.
The citation also noted Heatly’s work in mentorship and capacity building. This includes efforts to develop emerging leaders, support community partners, and establish sustainable, community-based models for school mental health services across New York state and beyond.
In the Know Podcast: Connecting For Kids with Allison Stiles
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Collaboration is Key! Allison Stiles, PhD, and colleagues joined Churchville-Chili CSD on a recent podcast for parents/caregivers to learn more about Connecting for Kids and the importance of collaboration between primary care, behavioral health, and schools.
View Resources from the Podcast
WROC-TV Mental Health Monthly Checkup with Dr. Allison Stiles: Navigating the NY Statewide Cellphone Ban in Schools
Friday, October 3, 2025
WROC-TV Mental Health Monthly Checkup with URMC child psychologist, Dr. Allison Stiles
Navigating the NY Statewide Cellphone Ban in Schools
Cell Phone Bans in Schools: What Parents Need to Know
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Research from the Digital Wellness Lab suggests that reducing phone use during school can lift academic performance, promote face-to-face interaction, and lessen exposure to cyberbullying. Still, experts emphasize that building healthy tech habits isn’t just about school rules.
“Cell phones aren’t inherently ‘bad,’” says Melissa Heatly, PhD, a child psychologist at UR Medicine’s Golisano Children’s Hospital. “They’re powerful tools for communication and learning, but they can also be distracting and overwhelming for kids who are still developing self-regulation skills.”
Read more on UR Newroom: Cell Phone Bans in Schools: What Parents Need to Know
ARC Health Matters | Melissa Heatly, PhD discusses the school cell phone ban
Friday, August 29, 2025
Melissa Heatly, PhD, a URMC child psychologist, discusses the school cell phone ban with ARC Health Matters, Fox Rochester WUHF.
View ARC Health Matters Interview
School Year Stress: Acing the Back-to-School Season
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Being prepared, mindful, and having the necessary tools to organize your family routines can help reduce your stress and anxiety. That's why we've created a go-to guide with resources and advice from experts—to help you feel prepared as the school year begins. Allison Stiles, PhD, and Melissa Heatly, PhD, provide tips on how parents can help make the transition to back-to-school easier.
Read more on UR Newsroom: School Year Stress: Acing the Back-to-School Season
13 Wham News: Melissa Heatly talks children's mental health
Friday, May 9, 2025
Meliss Heatly discusses children's mental health with 13 Wham News Rochester. May 9th is Children's Mental Health Awareness Day
View 13 Wham News: Melissa Heatly talks about children's mental health