Simplified: The Sioux Falls School District this week shared early results from a pilot project to embed mental health therapists in schools to support students. And so far, it appears to be helping. Here’s what we’ve learned so far.
Why it mattersRooted in Schools, is a three-year pilot program providing on-site mental health therapists at five Sioux Falls schools in partnership with Avera Behavioral Health. Students can receive one-on-one counseling with less disruption to their school day. In its first year, the program has served 125 kids – 25 at each participating pilot school – and there are already waitlists in some schools, according to a news release from the district. Early data shows these students have improved attendance rates and a decrease in disruptive behaviors. The program is funded by a $1.2 million commitment from the Seed for Success Foundation, a supporting organization of the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation. “To bring in some dollars to try something new is a really great role for philanthropy,” said Andy Patterson, president and CEO of the community foundation. “I just can’t say enough good things about our school district for how willing they are to explore this kind of partnership.”Tell me more
Superintendent Jamie Nold said students participating in the Rooted in Schools program showed a 14% increase in attendance in just the first several months of the program.
“This is an encouraging sign that we’re moving in the right direction,” Nold said.The district and Avera are collecting data on school attendance and mental health outcomes to gauge the success of the program.
Schools involved include Washington High School, Whittier Middle School, and Cleveland, Rosa Parks and Terry Redlin Elementary Schools.
Avera Vice President of Behavioral Health Thomas Otten said the goal is to strengthen students’ mental health, enhance their ability to learn and provide early intervention to prevent crises.
“When schools prioritize mental health support, they’re not just helping students cope, they’re giving them the foundation to learn and thrive,” Otten said.
To participate in the program, students need a teacher’s recommendation and parent or guardian permission.
Therapy provided in the program is billed through insurance, and the Seed for Success Foundation covers costs for uninsured students. What happens next?
The pilot program is expected to continue for two more years.