Improving mental health support in middle schools
Evidence-Informed Mental Health Prevention, Assessment, Collaboration, and Treatment in Middle Schools
This study tests whether different training methods for school staff can help them better support the mental health needs of middle school students.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 21350 (estimated) |
| Ages | 10 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Virginia Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Columbia, Missouri and 2 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06047041 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project evaluates how different types of training and support affect school staff's ability to identify and address the mental and behavioral health needs of middle school students. Researchers will implement a screening system called the Early Identification System (EIS) in selected middle schools and compare outcomes based on two types of training: standard onboarding and participation in professional learning communities with coaching. The study will utilize a randomized controlled trial design to assess the effectiveness of these approaches on staff practices and student outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are public middle schools in rural areas, towns, and suburbs that plan to implement the Early Identification System.
Not a fit: Schools that have previously used the Early Identification System or have a low response rate on pre-intervention implementation may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the ability of school staff to effectively support the mental health needs of middle school students.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in implementing similar mental health support systems in school settings, indicating potential for positive outcomes.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Public middle schools (must include grades 6-8) planning to implement the EIS * Located in rural areas, towns, \& suburbs / cities (NCES locales) * All children attending the schools and staff employed by the schools are eligible for inclusion Exclusion Criteria: * Previous use of EIS (i.e., use of all screening data and intervention hub) * \<70% response rate on pre-intervention implementation of EIS
Where this trial is running
Columbia, Missouri and 2 other locations
- University of Missouri — Columbia, Missouri, United States (Recruiting)
- University of South Carolina — Columbia, South Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Michael D Lyons, Ph.D. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Michael D Lyons, Ph.D.
- Email: mdl8s@virginia.edu
- Phone: 434-924-0790
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.