Embed School-based Services into a Unified, Comprehensive, and Equitable System of Student/Learning Supports
Last week we noted that the increased concern about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many well intentioned initiatives and policy reports that, unfortunately, limit discussion to integrating and expanding school‑based health services. The latest push is seen in the federal launch of a joint‑department effort to expand school‑based health services.
We raised the following caution:
While the focus on school‑based services is a necessary piece of addressing barriers to learning and teaching, it is just one facet of what schools need. And focusing on it in isolation of what else is needed has unfortunate consequences for students and schools.
This caution produced queries about what we think needs to be done. Recent reports and other resources may be accessed HERE in the Online Resource Catalogue. Below is a sample of the most recent reports:
How School Boards Can Pursue New Directions to Help Schools Address Barriers to Learning and Teaching http://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/pdfdocs/boardrep2022.pdf.
We won't Argue Against Adding More Counselors,
BUT ...
Addressing Student Mental Health Concerns Involves Much More than Increasing the Number of Mental Health Providers http://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/pdfdocs/morethan.pdf.
2021‑22: Addressing Learning, Behavior, and Emotional Problems Through Better Use of Student and Learning Support Staff http://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/pdfdocs/supports.pdf.
For free access to three recent books detailing the policy and practice changes that can transform how schools address barriers to learning and teaching and reengage disconnected students and families, visit:
http://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/improving_school_improvement.html.