| Citation: | Jennings, J., Pearson , G., & Harris, M. (2000). Implementing and maintaining school-based mental health services in a large, urban school district. Journal of School Health, 70(5), 201-205. |
Annotation:
The purpose of this article is to describe one example of a school-based mental health program, how it has been implemented, and the results it has achieved. The initiative described was a district-wide programĂclinics were established in 20 high schools, 24 middle schools, and 14 elementary schools. Services were developed and delivered with participation by the families receiving services. The researchers found that among students receiving mental health services, there was a 32% decrease in absences, a 31% decrease in failures (ÒfailuresÓ is not clearly defined in the article), and a 95% decrease in disciplinary referrals. Satisfaction questionnaires completed by students and family members receiving mental health services were positive, with more than 90% of respondents reporting they were happy with services and would return if needed. Ninety five percent of school personnel similarly reported satisfaction with the program. Data were collected by the school district at the beginning and end of each school year for all students in the district, and tracked education outcomes, including attendance, grades, behavior, and test scores. This information is supplemented by data from the school-based mental health programs on students receiving services. The article discusses the evolution of the program over time and implementation issues such as staffing, training, referral procedures, and the role of families in the process of service delivery. Finally, the benefits and challenges of implementing school-based mental health services are discussed. Outcome data and methodology are discussed in general terms, and do not provide enough information for an in-depth analysis of results.
The Connection Collection: ©SEDL 2024