School safety has become central to the educational goals and missions of schools on almost every continent (Astor & Benbenishty, 2018). Equally important is supporting the social, emotional, and mental health needs of all students. School counselors have specific training to help students navigate the challenges of distance learning and…

Taking action to address health-related chronic absenteeism can have a powerful impact on students' academic success and build the foundation for healthy, successful lives. This document focuses on providing educators, particularly school district decision-makers, with knowledge and practical guidance for creating meaningful change to address…

Background: To monitor priority health risk behaviors and school health policies and practices, respectively, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) and the School Health Profiles (Profiles). CDC is often asked about the use and application of these survey data to improve…

The Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) was administered in a stratified random sample to South Dakota public schools including Bureau of Indian Affairs schools; private schools were not included. The six priority health-risk behaviors assessed in the YRBS are: (1) intentional and unintentional injuries; (2) tobacco use; (3) alcohol and other drug…

This Staff Brief was prepared for the Joint Legislative Council's Special Committee on School Health Services, which was established to study pupil health services within the public school system. Part 1 provides background information on selected federal initiatives and programs, including a joint statement on school health, and a discussion of…