Background: This article discusses the importance of screening students in schools for emotional/behavioral problems. Methods: Elements relevant to planning and implementing effective mental health screening in schools are considered. Screening in schools is linked to a broader national agenda to improve the mental health of children and…

School health services work towards promoting and maintaining health of school-age children. An additional aspect of an effective program is to identify problems and manage or follow these problems to resolution. Resolution rates of health problems identified in students by primary care, physical examination, or screenings are examined. (Author/DF)

School health screening programs, which include screening, education of children and parents, and follow-up in the form of appropriate treatment, are described. A scoliosis screening program is described as an example of the model presented. Suggestions for planners, participants, and evaluators of any school health screening are summarized. (JMF)