New Opportunity for CT Schools to Strengthen Student Mental Health Supports
April 21, 2024
When it comes to student mental health, many schools and districts wish they had more time to plan, evaluate, follow up, and do more to
prevent students' behavior and symptoms from escalating. But with youth mental health needs increasing nationwide since the pandemic, many schools and districts report feeling like they're stuck in "crisis" mode.
CHDI works with schools and districts in Connecticut and beyond to help them strengthen their mental health systems and supports using a Comprehensive School Mental Health (CSMH) approach. This proactive, team-based approach helps schools and districts strengthen collaboration with community-based services, increase behavioral health knowledge among all staff and students, implement trauma-informed, evidence-based supports, and build a culture that supports the well-being of the entire school community.
We are currently recruiting Connecticut schools to participate in a new, federally-funded, multi-year CSMH initiative: CONNECTing Schools to Care IV Students. The goal of CONNECT IV is to expand and sustain the state's behavioral health system for children through expansion of trauma-informed, comprehensive school mental health supports, ensuring youth are linked to equitable and appropriate services and supports. This is a multi-year opportunity beginning in the 2024-25 school year.
Goals for Participating Schools Include:
Schools and districts can apply to participate at three different levels, based on their need and capacity:
Level 1 Schools will receive:
- A School Mental Health Needs Assessment using the SHAPE System
- Technical Assistance from CHDI
- SHAPE Results Review
Level 2 Schools will receive:
- All Level 1 components
- An implementation plan with custom goals based on your SHAPE results
- Behavioral health training opportunities for staff and families
- Regional learning communities
Level 3 Schools will receive:
- All Level 1 and 2 components
- Ongoing technical assistance and support throughout the year
- Quality improvement and evaluation support
- Implementation of a peer support program (middle & high schools only)
Funding incentives are available based on the school's level of participation.
How to Get Involved
To learn more about CONNECT IV or apply to participate for the 2024-25 school year, please contact Project Coordinator Mackenzie Wink:
