At a recent Board of Education meeting, Papillion La Vista Community Schools (PLCS) showcased its comprehensive approach to addressing student behavioral and mental health needs. Dr. Tammy Voisin, Director of Special Services, and Dr. Deb Anderson, Mental Health Liaison, presented an informative overview of the district's multi-tiered systems of behavioral support.

Central to PLCS's strategy is a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) framework, designed to meet the needs of all students. This proactive model provides universal support for all students, with more intensive interventions available for those requiring additional assistance.

Dr. Anderson highlighted the district's foresight in implementing practices now being mandated statewide. "When LB705 passed, we were already there. This is new to most districts, but it's not new to PLCS because we've been doing it for almost 10 years," she noted.

Key initiatives in the district's behavioral and mental health support system include:

1. Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS): District-wide training and support for PBIS, focusing on fostering positive behaviors from pre-K through young adult transition programs.
2. Expanded Mental Health Resources: The addition of a Mental Health Liaison position and the formation of a Mental Health Collaborative, bringing together psychologists, social workers, counselors, and behavior coaches.
3. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum: Implementation of an SEL curriculum for PreK-8, with plans to expand to high school, aimed at improving students' emotional intelligence.
4. Teacher-Child Interaction Training (TCIT): Since 2015, this professional development model has trained 168 staff members, focusing on strengthening teacher-child relationships and managing challenging behaviors in early education classrooms.
5. Behavior Coaches and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs): Introduction of specialized staff to provide targeted support for students needing additional behavioral interventions.

The presentation also outlined the district's proactive measures addressing serious issues like suicide and self-harm, including evidence-based screeners, peer support programs, and staff training in suicide prevention.

While acknowledging ongoing challenges in student behavior, PLCS's data-driven, multi-tiered approach demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting students' behavioral and mental health needs. By anticipating state mandates and continually refining their practices, Papillion La Vista Community Schools is working diligently to create a supportive environment for all students.