School Mental Health Support Program
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Colorado School Mental Health Support Program (SMHSP)
The School Mental Health Support Program (SMHSP) is a statewide initiative designed to strengthen mental wellness for students and educators, particularly in rural and underserved schools. Created through House Bill 24-1406 and funded by the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), SMHSP offers training, resources, and hands-on implementation support to help schools build sustainable, trauma-informed mental health systems.
Led by the Trauma-Responsive Implementation and Practice (TRIP) program housed at the Kempe Center, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus in partnership with the University of Denver Butler Institute for Families, and in collaboration with the BHA, SMHSP supports schools in aligning efforts with the Colorado Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. Our goal is to build inclusive, connected school communities where students and staff can thrive.
Benefits for Participating Schools
- Evidence-informed training in trauma-responsive practices, mental health literacy, and educator wellness
- Technical assistance and tools to apply strategies in the classroom, building, and district levels
- Peer collaboration through learning communities
- Tailored guidance through ongoing coaching, consultation and office hours from experienced facilitators
- Free CDE renewal hours
- Strengthened partnerships that support whole-school mental health
- Train-the-Trainer Model to promote long-term sustainability by developing in-house experts
Why Invest in School Mental Health and Well-Being
- Boosts student achievement and classroom focus
- Reduces disciplinary referrals and chronic absenteeism
- Supports educator retention and well-being
- Contributes to creating more inclusive and connected school environments
Available Topics
- Mental health and wellness
- Self-regulation and resiliency
- Trauma-informed practices
- Cultural responsiveness
- Mindfulness and cognitive behavioral skills
- Resources for managing suicide risk
- Educator wellness and addressing work-related stress
How It Aligns with Colorado MTSS
SMHSP serves, at no cost:
- Colorado schools serving grades 6 to 12, with an emphasis on rural and underserved schools
- Educators, school staff, and mental health professionals
- District and school leaders working to create safe, supportive, learning environments
