According to NASSP, what should school staff be trained on regarding student mental health?

Training school staff on how to effectively refer students to community services is essential for supporting student mental health. This approach aligns with the National Association of Secondary School Principals' (NASSP) commitment to building a comprehensive support system for students. Staff trained in this area can identify students who may be experiencing mental health challenges and ensure they receive the appropriate help by connecting them with external resources. Effective referrals empower educators to play an active role in promoting student well-being and addressing mental health concerns, which can significantly impact student success and overall school climate.

In contrast, excluding community service personnel from staff development would limit the resources available to the school. The notion that promoting positive school-wide environments is ineffective undermines the importance of nurturing a supportive climate for student learning, while stating that identifying mental health disorders excludes involving community staff overlooks the collaborative approach needed when addressing mental health issues in schools.