- When a child is exposed to violence or trauma, a law enforcement officer or DHS worker will contact the identified school personnel (superintendent’s office, principal or counselor) who will take the initial information (Handle With Care Notice).
- The superintendent’s office, principal or counselor will then ensure notification is provided to appropriate teacher(s).
- Teachers will observe child’s behavior/academic performance and utilize trauma sensitive interventions as appropriate.
- If child exhibits difficulties resuming normal activities (emotional/behavioral/academic, etc.), the teacher will refer the child to the school counselor and/or the school mental health team.
- The school counselor will assess the child’s needs to determine if counseling/services are needed and make a recommendation to the parent/guardian.
- The counselor or social worker will refer the caregiver/child for follow-up services as deemed appropriate (i.e. even simple actions of providing a snack, change of clothes or quiet place to sleep).
- The school will attempt to obtain written consent from the parent/guardian for care providers and school staff to communicate about the best interest of the child.
- School to provide trauma sensitive training to ALL school employees. A process will be developed to alert appropriate school staff of the child’s exposure to violence.
- School to provide space for specialized trauma therapist.
- School creates monthly School Mental Health/Multi-disciplinary Team Meetings.
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- At least quarterly, key MDT stakeholders will review and evaluate MDT and make recommendations for improvement as necessary.
- Law Enforcement
- Principal/Site Administrator (at least one representative)
- Advocates
- School Based Therapist, Social Worker or Counselor
- Community Mental Health Partners
- School Resource Officer(s) (SRO)
- Indian Education Coordinator
- Designated staff lead of coordination of vulnerable student populations (such as homeless, foster care, i.e.)
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- Case workers
- Community partners
- Parents
- Others
The Team will assess the following to determine the effectiveness of MDT: academic achievements; truancies; and disciplinary reports. The meeting will not focus on specific cases.
