Highlights how schools currently address mental health; discusses new directions that build on emerging reform themes and reframe prevailing reform models; and outlines ways pupil-service professionals can develop a proactive agenda for shaping the future of mental health in schools. (Author/MKA)

This introductory packet provides an overview of what the term "Mental Health in Schools" means. The packet discusses how school-based and school-linked programs have been developed for purposes of early intervention, crisis intervention and prevention, treatment, and promotion of positive social and emotional development. It asserts that…

A study reviewed outcomes of 34 prevention programs for children (ages 5-18) that produce improvements in specific psychological symptoms or in factors directly associated with increased risk for child mental disorders. The following conclusions can be made regarding validated programs: (1) short-term preventive interventions produce time-limited…