School Business Insider: Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Among School Business Officials
Release Date: June 10, 2025
Host: John Brucato
Guest: Peter Bard, Chief Financial Officer, East Stroudsburg Area School District, Pennsylvania
Introduction
In this poignant episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato delves into the critical yet often overlooked topic of mental health within the school business administration profession. Joining him is Peter Bard, the Chief Financial Officer of East Stroudsburg Area School District, who courageously shares his personal journey battling anxiety and depression while navigating the high-pressure responsibilities of his role.
Peter Bard’s Role and Motivation to Share
Peter Bard begins by outlining his role in managing a substantial budget of over $200 million for the East Stroudsburg Area School District. Recently transitioning to Central Dolphin School District, Peter discusses the impetus behind his decision to openly address his mental health struggles. Attended the PASBO (Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials) Annual Conference in 2024, where a mental health panel inspired him to share his story. He states:
"If it helps one person, then I think that's very, very beneficial for people." (02:21)
Encouraged by a fellow ASBO International member, Robert Saul, Peter authored an article titled "Speaking My Personal Mental Health Journey" and presented it at the PASBO 2025 conference. His goal was to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health in his profession and to advocate for better support systems.
Early Experiences and Suffering in Silence
Peter reflects on his early life, revealing that his struggles with mental health began as early as elementary school. He recounts being bullied during Little League baseball, which significantly impacted his self-esteem and coping mechanisms:
"When I told my parents about it... the kids just cut out and didn't bother me anymore... So, when I got older... I didn't have any issues, but deep down, I suffered in silence." (06:55)
This early experience taught him to internalize his struggles, fearing further ostracization and not wanting to burden his family. As a result, Peter continued to grapple with anxiety and depression into his adulthood, often masking his true feelings behind professional success.
Recognizing the Struggles
Peter details the turning point in 2010 when he first seriously contemplated ending his life. Describing the numbness and overwhelming darkness he felt, he shares a deeply emotional moment that prevented him from following through with his plan, thanks to the comforting presence of his dog, Oliver:
"He came in my room and... laid his head on my chest... I broke out in tears and I couldn't... That freed me from the darkness a little bit." (17:22)
This experience underscored the importance of seeking help, although initially, Peter continued to suffer in silence, relying on coping mechanisms like medication and therapy introduced in 2015.
The Impact of COVID-19
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 exacerbated Peter's mental health challenges. Transitioning to a new school district amid the crisis, he lacked the support network he previously depended on. The abrupt changes and increased responsibilities without adequate support led him to relapse into severe depression and anxiety:
"So I crashed. So I went right back to what I knew in 2010." (26:08)
Peter describes another pivotal moment when his dog, Oliver, mirrored the support his previous dog Bruno provided, ultimately leading him to reach out for help. This time, the response from his superintendent and school board was overwhelmingly supportive, illustrating a positive shift in institutional attitudes toward mental health:
"It's amazing. That's it. And so we got an accounting firm in to help us on the side... I didn't tell them about the suicidal ideation." (30:42)
Breaking the Stigma
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health in the school business profession. Peter emphasizes the misconception that professional success equates to personal well-being:
"By all outside measures, you're wildly successful, but inside, you're struggling and you're hurting." (12:07)
He addresses common misunderstandings, such as the notion that individuals with high-achieving careers shouldn't experience mental health issues, and advocates for greater empathy and support within the profession. Peter underscores the importance of being open about one's struggles to foster a healthier work environment.
Role of Support Systems and Associations
Peter highlights the vital role that professional associations like ASBO International and PASBO play in providing support and resources for school business officials. He credits these organizations with offering assistance during his darkest times, from handling complex accounting issues to emotional support:
"These associations have helped me pull back from bad spots or falling into darkness again by helping me with difficult questions." (35:04)
He encourages listeners to engage actively with these communities, emphasizing that mutual support can prevent isolation and promote mental well-being.
Finding the Right Therapy and Medication
Peter shares his experiences with various therapists and medications, acknowledging the trial-and-error process involved in finding the right fit. He emphasizes patience and perseverance:
"I've had different dosages and prescriptions over the last 10 years... it takes time and trust in the process." (43:17)
Peter also discusses the importance of therapy, noting that while finding the right therapist can be challenging, the benefits are invaluable for managing mental health effectively.
Advice to Listeners
In his concluding remarks, Peter offers heartfelt advice to fellow school business officials and listeners:
- Prioritize Personal Well-being: "Your personal being is important, not just your professional being." (46:03)
- Utilize Available Resources: Take advantage of paid time off and support systems to maintain mental health.
- Communicate Openly: Speak up about mental health struggles without fear of judgment or professional repercussions.
- Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to therapists and utilize medication as part of a comprehensive mental health strategy.
He stresses that taking care of oneself is fundamental to being effective in one’s professional role and maintaining meaningful personal relationships.
Conclusion
Peter Bard's candid recounting of his mental health journey serves as a powerful reminder of the silent struggles many school business officials face. His story underscores the necessity of breaking down stigmas, fostering supportive professional environments, and prioritizing mental well-being alongside career ambitions. Through his vulnerability and advocacy, Peter not only provides hope and guidance to his peers but also champions the importance of mental health awareness in the educational administration sphere.
Notable Quotes:
-
Peter Bard on Sharing His Story:
"If it helps one person, then I think that's very, very beneficial for people." (02:21) -
On Suffering in Silence:
"My parents and family and friends didn't even know I was going through it." (04:08) -
Describing Depression and Anxiety:
"Depression and anxiety is a constant struggle... I still struggle with the depression and anxiety." (06:41) -
On the Role of Therapy:
"Being able to talk about it... became even more therapeutic." (06:41) -
Breaking the Stigma:
"Don't want to walk around with a smile on my face all the time. It feels artificially happy." (21:24) -
Advice on Support Systems:
"If you're struggling at work and you need some help... speak up as to what your struggles are." (32:58) -
Final Message:
"Taking care of yourself should be your primary concern because you're never going to be the best business manager... if you're struggling internally." (44:36)
Support Resources Mentioned:
- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
- ASBO International and PASBO: Professional associations offering support and resources for school business officials.
Peter Bard’s story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the profound impact of supportive professional communities. His journey illuminates the path toward a healthier, more empathetic approach to mental health in the school business profession.