Research shows that children are academically successful when their social-emotional needs are met. One in five MMSD students has mental health concerns significant enough to impact their learning and social-emotional well-being. It is estimated that at least half of students with mental health concern have significant barriers accessing recommended mental health services. Students of color and economically disadvantaged students are less likely to have access to mental health care. Expanded school-based mental health services bridge this critical gap. BHS is part of the school’s multi-tiered systems of supports (MTSS). The school’s MTSS is designed to support students across all tiers (i.e., universal, targeted, intensive). BHS primarily serves those students who need intensive services (i.e., tier 3). In addition, services are also offered to those students who are not responsive to current targeted supports (i.e., tier 2 supports or interventions). While BHS focuses on providing intervention to students who are in need of mental health support, BHS also impacts the universal climate of schools through consultations and professional development opportunities for teachers and school staff. This program increases the school’s capacity to support mental health concerns by promoting trauma sensitivity, socio-emotional consultations, and support of professional development. The specific BHS program outcomes include: To improve social emotional wellness and reduce symptoms that interfere with learning for identified students. To increase staff efficacy in supporting students with significant social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. To establish continuity of care for referred students that is inclusive of family and health system providers. To build stability and support expansion of the Behavioral Health in Schools Program in MMSD.
