Screening...
TO screen or NOT to screen? That is the question...
"It would be unconscionable to identify students and then not follow through with some supports."
The Substance Abuse Mental and Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) identified several benefits to screening universally at the school level (MHTTC, 2019):
Shift from being reactive to proactive
Systematic and strategic resource allocation
Opportunity for early intervention
Increased crisis prevention and school safety
Considerations Before Implementing Universal Screening
"While there are many benefits to screening all students for mental health concerns, there are also reasons why universal screening may not be right for your school population. Before beginning this process, ensure that you have a process in place for referral and services for students who are identified. Additionally, consider whether teachers are prepared to implement activities that may facilitate the wellbeing of students who are identified. It would be unconscionable to identify students and then not follow through with some supports."
ENSURING IT'S DONE WELL
"School districts need information regarding best practices for implementing universal SEB screening so their students can realize the benefits of a comprehensive SEB support system."
"Jacob and colleagues identified five primary ethical and legal considerations of universal screening including 1) ensuring consent/assent process is acceptable under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment ([PPRA], 2001, Pub. L. No 107-110); 2) using screeners that are valid, fair, and useful; 3) understanding the limits of screening data for decision-making; 4) evaluating the incremental validity of the screener; and 5) the capacity of the school to act upon screening results in a meaningful manner."
Additional Resources & Tools
National Center for School Mental Health (NCSMH) - School Mental Health Quality Guide - Screening
