Improving mental health support in middle schools
Official title: Evidence-Informed Mental Health Prevention, Assessment, Collaboration, and Treatment in Middle Schools
Run by University of Virginia · NCT06047041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 10 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 21350 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Virginia Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Columbia, Missouri and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 31, 2023 |
| Main results expected | July 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | July 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 19, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06047041 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Other studies have shown success in implementing similar mental health support systems in school settings, indicating potential for positive outcomes.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.