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In the October Perspectives Newsletter, we're excited to dive into a crucial topic: the impact of in-school mental health services on students' well-being and academic success. Our featured op-ed, written by Mike Shaver, President & CEO of Brightpoint, sheds light on the importance of addressing trauma in schools and in our communities.

Commentary by Mike Shaver, CEO & President of Brightpoint

In-school mental health services help students process trauma so they can focus on learning.

In this insightful op-ed, Mike Shaver discusses the far-reaching implications of trauma on students' ability to learn and thrive. He highlights the work of Brightpoint in supporting students in Chicago schools and presents a compelling argument for the expansion of in-school mental health services. Read Mike’s Op-ed in Crain’s.

Brightpoint's Supporting Programs

At Brightpoint, our dedicated community-based mental health providers work directly in the schools, collaborating with educators, school-staff and community-based organizations. Together, we're committed to enhancing students' academic achievements by proactively addressing any challenges that might hinder their learning experience. Additionally, our skilled therapists take the lead in conducting specialized group sessions, focusing on topics such as effective anger management techniques and the development of essential social skills. Learn more about our School-Based Behavioral Health programs here.

A Closer Look

The Center for American Progress Article on Choose to Change:

Title: "Centering youth in community violence interventions as part of a comprehensive approach to countering gun violence"

The Choose to Change (C2C) program serves youth impacted by violence and trauma in their communities, providing intensive advocacy and wraparound support along with trauma-informed therapy to break the cycle of violence, increase connections to educational opportunities, and help young people succeed. Read this article from the Center for American Progress, which discusses how community violence intervention programs are a critical part of a comprehensive approach to reduce the impact of rising gun violence on youth and in U.S. communities.

The University of Chicago Education Lab Research article:

Title: "A program to cut school suspensions in Chicago worked very, very well. Here's how."

New research from the University of Chicago Education Lab finds that restorative practices in schools can significantly reduce student arrests, increase student perceptions of belonging and school safety, and decrease arrests for violent offenses.

The study, which evaluated the effect of restorative practices implemented across Chicago Public Schools’ (CPS) high schools beginning in the 2013-2014 academic year, suggests RP is generating genuine, positive changes in underlying student behavior. Read the full article from The Washington Post here.

MINDBEAT podcast episode:

Title: "How to support the mental health needs of Early Learners"

In this episode, join hosts Duncan and Laine to discuss their work in supporting the mental health needs of Early Learners. MINDBEAT by Effective School Solutions is the podcast for all topics related to school-based mental health, and the first podcast dedicated to this vital topic. MINDBEAT covers topics such as best practices and legislative updates. Listen to their podcast about how to support the mental health needs of Early Learners, here.

If you know someone who might be interested in this topic, please feel free to forward this newsletter with them using the forward button below! Together, we can help families and children thrive.