By: Tom Williams | September 30, 2025
Clarksdale, MS — “It’s time to shatter the silence and end the stigma.” With these powerful words, Shada Ratliff, Social Emotional Interventionist for the Clarksdale Municipal School District, set the tone for an emotional program that honored survivors and remembered lives lost to struggles with mental health.
Ratliff, who organized the event, shared how deeply she is impacted by the stories students bring to her each day. “In my role, students share their story with me. I feel their pain, and it’s heartbreaking to know just how much our students endure,” she said. “I’ve always valued the importance of education, but our students’ mental health is just as important. I began this event last year to ensure our students know that they are not alone. Support is available.”
The gathering brought together students, families, educators, and community members in a safe space of encouragement and reflection. With the theme centered on hope and healing, the program provided both comfort and strength to those navigating similar struggles.
Guest speaker Edna Nicole delivered an inspiring message, reminding students that resilience and self-worth are powerful tools in overcoming life’s hardships. Her words echoed throughout the room, leaving many visibly moved and uplifted.
For Ratliff, the event is more than a program—it’s a mission. “We are here to bring hope to our students who struggle every day with similar thoughts,” she said. “Together, we can make a difference.”
As the evening closed, candles were lit in memory of those lost, while survivors were celebrated for their courage. The message was clear: no one should have to fight their battles alone.
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