Comprehensive school-based mental health supports form the foundation that allows for equitable academic pathways for all youth. True success in supporting the well-being of students’ mental, behavioral and emotional health requires a systems-based approach. Washington is engaged in generational work focused on comprehensive school-based mental health systems utilizing a MTSS approach. These efforts are far-reaching, span multiple decades, and have positively impacted the lives of thousands of students and their families. Washington will give a brief overview of the history, the lessons learned and the models for success that others can utilize to grow and build their own school-based systems of mental and behavioral health to meet the needs of all students equitably. Participants will learn recommendations towards building and growing equitable school-based mental health systems that prioritize community connections, youth voice, adult wellness, and sustainable pathways forward.
Bridget Underdahl has been an educator and teacher of teachers on systems-based frameworks for nearly 20 years. In recent years she has overseen the work of School Based Mental Health Systems at The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction in Washington. This work encompasses grant and program funding to create innovative pathways forward to transform schools from the inside out. These efforts are far-reaching, span many agencies and communities, and have positively impacted the lives of thousands of students and their families. She is with you here today to share lessons learned from the work and share recommendations towards building and growing equitable school-based mental health systems that prioritize community connections, youth voice, adult wellness and sustainable pathways.