Advancing Culturally Responsive, Trauma-Informed School Mental Health Systems through a National Learning Collaborative

Abstract

Multi-site learning collaboratives have improved school mental health systems by offering pragmatic guidance for engaging in evidence-based practices. However, minimal research to date has examined the use of learning collaboratives to inform culturally responsive, trauma-informed school mental health systems. This pilot study illustrates the first national learning collaborative to advance comprehensive school mental health systems with specific attention to culturally responsive, trauma-informed care. Thirteen school districts in 14 states participated in the 2-year learning collaborative, representing urban, rural, and suburban communities. Descriptive statistics and paired-sample T-tests were used to examine school districts’ acceptability of the learning collaborative and progress in their school mental health systems. Findings support using learning collaboratives that provide professional development in trauma-informed and culturally responsive care to advance school mental health systems.