School districts, university partners, and community partners gathered at the AIU on March 3 to reflect on SEEKS SES, the initiative that addresses social and emotional health and is funded through the Allegheny County Health Department. The group highlighted achievements, shared insights, and discussed next steps as the grant nears its end.
Shannon Fagan, SEEKS SES coordinator, expressed her ongoing passion for the work and the importance of sustaining it. “The smartest person in the room is the room,” she said, acknowledging all of the significant work that has been done.
Representatives from nine school districts discussed the initiatives that have had the most impact in their schools. Many used the grant money to expand their special education services and create new staff positions, including therapists, crisis intervention specialists, and mental health liaisons. Positions like these have allowed for more focused counseling with programs like New Directions at Penn Hills School District and the YESS team at McKeesport Area School District.
Other districts used the money to create de-escalation spaces inside their buildings, such as the Wellness Rooms at Cornell School District and the Resiliency Room at Woodland Hills School District.
When asked about how to keep the momentum going, the group endorsed participation in Community of Practice discussions and the possibility of shared services models.
In addition to school districts, university partners were also in attendance. Their successes included the Social-Emotional Learning certificate program and the Youth Mental Health First Aid training. Both courses were designed to support a shift in student mindfulness. Dr. Christie Lewis from Chatham University said, “By investing in mental health literacy and providing the necessary tools, a more compassionate and supportive environment for young people can be created.”
Finally, community partners provided insights on their role in SEEKS SES. They benefited most from creating awareness of social-emotional learning, building connections with providers and schools, and collaborating with universities. They agreed that the greatest challenge is the continuation of funding for this important work.
AIU Executive Director Dr. Robert Scherrer acknowledged that the grant money may be running out, but the work cannot stop. “It’s absolutely amazing what has already been accomplished,” he said.
