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Mental health can directly affect a student’s ability to learn and succeed in school and beyond. Data from the 2017-19 Biennial Statewide California Healthy Kids Survey of secondary students show that respondents have significant unmet needs that could benefit from intervention and supports.

School-based services that support students’ mental health are best delivered using a Multi-Tiered System of Support, examining data on a population level to help to identify students’ needs within each tier. A Multi-Tiered System of Support includes:

• Universal supports for all students to increase mental health awareness and improve school climate
• Targeted supports to support students at risk of developing mental health conditions
• Intensive supports or referrals to individualized services for students with significant needs

This brief examines findings from the statewide survey and explains how data on school climate, mental health, and other significant needs can inform a Multi-Tiered System of Support.