Critical Factors and Strategies for Advancing Statewide School Mental Health Policy and Practice

Abstract

The authors sought to identify factors and strategies critical to statewide advancement of school mental health (SMH) efforts from the perspective of states that have demonstrated innovation, achievement and investment in SMH practice and policy. The School Mental Health-Capacity Building Partnership (SMHCBP) 1 conducted three in-depth focus group discussions in each of four states with representatives from diverse stakeholders. Participants reported successes and challenges in developing and advancing local and state SMH policies, programs, and services. Qualitative analyses led to identification of ten critical factors to advancing SMH at state level. They included developing a vision and shared agenda for SMH, identifying feasible and sustainable funding models, and establishing effective accountability and outcomes monitoring of SMH efforts. Strategies to implement each factor were also identified by discussion group participants and SMH-CBP Steering Committee members. States and districts can employ ...