3 NH school districts unite to host 'Granite Minds, Connected Hearts' community event

Recognizing the complex issues facing today’s youth, the Winnisquam Regional, Laconia, and Franklin school districts recently joined forces to present "Granite Minds, Connected Hearts," a unique, dual-track community engagement event designed to support local families. Held in a spirit of regional collaboration, the evening offered critical insights and dialogue for parents alongside an educational, inspiring wildlife program for their children.

The centerpiece of the adult program was a powerful performance by the New Hampshire Theatre Project titled, "The Kids Are Not Alright." Through a live, seated play, professional actors boldly brought to life the difficult topics and societal pressures that teens navigate daily. The performance provided a raw, authentic look at modern adolescent vulnerabilities.

Following the play, a skilled facilitator guided the audience through an interactive discussion. Parents and community members actively participated, sharing observations and discussing actionable strategies to foster stronger emotional support systems and open lines of communication at home.

While parents engaged in these vital conversations, their children enjoyed a parallel experience of their own. Led by a professional Wildlife Encounters educator, the presentation introduced youth to a popular team of wild and exotic Ambassador Animals, including a North American opossum, Bennett’s wallaby, African giant millipede, Granite Burmese python and many more. The program kept young minds constructively engaged while emphasizing the ecological importance of these animals, teaching the audience the value of wildlife appreciation, respect and protection.

By offering distinct, age-appropriate programming, the regional school districts successfully removed barriers to attendance, allowing entire families to participate in an evening dedicated to empathy, growth, and connection. Families walked away with valuable community resources, a take-home activity designed to build protective factors for youth, and a sense of renewed hope.

Also present were representatives from Lakes Region Mental Health Center, Riverbend Community Mental Health, Lakes Region Community Services: Family Resource Center and staff and students from Laconia’s Stand Up Sachems. The event was hosted at Prescott Farm with complimentary food generously donated by Domino’s Pizza and Annie’s Cafe & Catering in Laconia. This event was funded by Promising Futures for New Hampshire which is a partnership between NH Department of Education Bureau of Student Wellness and Nutrition and the NH Department of Health and Human Services Bureau for Drug and Alcohol Services.