According to the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), Mentally healthy children are more successful in school and life. Research shows us that students who receive social–emotional and mental health support achieve better academically. School climate, classroom behavior, on-task learning, and students’ sense of connectedness and well-being all improve as well. Mental health is not simply the absence of mental illness but also encompasses social, emotional, and behavioral health and the ability to cope with life’s challenges. Without proper support, students can have negative academic or behavioral problems sometimes leading to attendance, truancy, and delinquency (nasponline.org).

California Assembly Bill 2022 was recently added to provide students and their parents/guardians information on how to access student mental health services on campus or in the community. The Norris School District puts the utmost importance on the health and safety of our students. We have staff on every campus who are trained to assist students with their mental health needs. We highly encourage any student who is experiencing mental health concerns to reach out the adults on their campus for resources and supports.

Educationally-Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS) are specific mental health services provided to students who qualify for special education services, present with social-emotional needs that have not responded to lower levels of intervention, and impact thier ability to learn or benefit from their special education program. ERMHS are tailored to specific student needs and IEP goals. Services may include counseling (individual, group, parent, family) and social work services (collaboration adn case management).