A Comprehensive School-Based Mental Health Model: A Decade in the Making

Over the past decade, researchers in partnership with school practitioners developed a comprehensive school mental health model. The model includes a universal screening system that incorporates teacher and student reports on areas of risk known to be linked to mental health issues in youth. The Early Identification System (EIS) was developed as a feasible and socially valid universal screener that allows schools to use data to identify universal prevention interventions, areas for professional development for staff, and students who would benefit from selective or indicated interventions. The EIS can also be used to monitor change over time. Originally developed as part of a Coalition of six school districts, the US Department of Education invested in this comprehensive school mental health model to be adapted for rural schools. This article describes the partnership between school practitioners, the use of the model over time, and research conducted over the past decade. Implications for practice and policy are discussed.