The School Mental Health Services Program (SMHS)

The School Mental Health Program is committed to the social and emotional well-being of Pomona Unified's Students and their families. Our staff is comprised of licensed mental health professionals (Mental Health Supervisors) and Student Support Specialist who provide services which support students in managing their behavioral, emotional, and social needs, while promoting increased academic engagement.

Our team of clinical professionals and staff are trained to implement evidenced based practices to increase awareness and promote the mental health and well-being of PUSD students, thereby assisting students in reaching their highest personal and academic aspirations.

Working Together

Consultation, crisis management, school-wide prevention/postvention, early intervention as well as direct therapy services. These services are additionally expanded by way of partnerships with local treatment agencies to whom SMHS refers students and coordinates care between the family and provider.

Community Partners

To further our reach among students and families who are facing unique adjustments and challenges, SMHS partners with local universities and serves as a training field for graduate students who provide school-based therapy to both children and adults in the district.

School Mental Health Referral Form

Please send to schoolmentalhealth@pusd.org

24-25 Mental Health Referral.pdf

School Site Crisis Intervention Process

FINALPOMONA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT_MENTAL HEALTH POSTER (1).pdf

FINALPOMONA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT_MENTAL HEALTH POSTER SPANISH.pdf

Mental Health Clinicians

Anakari Corona

PUSD Extension 26561

Anakari.Corona@pusd.org

(909) 630-4360

Hello! My name is Anakari Corona and I am a Mental Health Clinician. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been in the mental health field for 9 years. Prior to that, I have worked with foster youth and families along with resource families involved with the child welfare system. I am a PUSD Alumni and happy to serve the community I grew up in! For many of us, the topic of mental health was never brought up while growing up, and it is crucial to know that mental health matters. From children, youth, families, and staff to our community, we are here to support you.

I truly believe that we can ALL make a difference in the life of children and youth with a smile, praise, compliment, making connections, and empowering them to be the best person they can be.

Some of my favorite quotes:

“My teacher gave me the best gift of all… Believing in me!”-Unknown

“It takes a big heart to shape little minds.”-Unknown

Fun facts: I enjoy mindfulness activities, I love soccer(Chivas), I graduated from Ganesha High School, I enjoy listening to music and going to concerts, I love traveling and have traveled to 14 countries!

Frank Zappia

PUSD Extension 26566

Frank.Zappia@pusd.org

(909) 964-3739

"When faced with an important task there is no room for self-doubt. Accept with humility, follow through with courage, and lead with confidence. "

Sharon Sanches

PUSD Extension 26560

Sharon.Sanches@pusd.org

(909) 964-5900

Sharon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and has 20+ years of experience working in the mental health field, specializing in working with families impacted by trauma. Sharon is also a clinical supervisor for Masters levl interns. She has been with Pomona Unified since 2016.

"Empathy is when you give up judgment for understanding" -Heather Forbes

"You are not accidental, You are Essential" - Jordan Feliz

Cassandra Medina

PUSD Extension 26532

Cassandra.Medina@pusd.org

Robert Shields

PUSD Extension 26561

Robert.Shields@pusd.org

(909) 964-7889

Madeline Gonzalez

PUSD Extension 26554

Madeline.Gonzalez@pusd.org

(909) 992-8892

My name is Madeline Gonzalez-Stoermer. I am a licensed clinical social worker with the School Mental Health/Student and Family Support office. My primary role is to provide clinical case management, school mental health services, and school advocacy to newcomer students and their families. I am a firm believer in empowering our students and their families. As a citizen of this world, I believe it is my responsibility to help others grow to their highest potential. I am a proud PUSD alumna. I have worked at PUSD for the past three years, and I am humbled to work with our future leaders! I enjoy spending time with my partner, my pets, and my extended family.