- When a child is exposed to violence or trauma, a law enforcement officer or CPS worker will contact the identified school personnel (superintendent’s office, principal or counselor) who will take the initial information (Handle With Care Notice).
- The superintendent’s office, principal or counselor will then ensure notification is provided to appropriate teacher(s).
- Teachers will observe child’s behavior/academic performance and utilize trauma sensitive interventions as appropriate.
- If child exhibits problems (emotional/behavioral/academic, etc.), the teacher will refer the child to the school counselor.
- The school counselor will assess the child’s needs to determine if counseling/services are needed and make a recommendation to the parent/guardian.
- The counselor or social worker will refer the caregiver/child for follow-up services as deemed appropriate.
- The school will attempt to obtain written consent from the parent/guardian for care providers and school staff to communicate about the best interest of the child.
- School to provide trauma sensitive training to ALL school employees. A process will be developed to alert appropriate school staff of the child’s exposure to violence.
- School to provide space for specialized trauma therapist.
- Quarterly Handle with Care Team Meeting.
- At least quarterly, key HWC stakeholders will review and evaluate HWC and make recommendations for improvement as necessary.Law Enforcement
- School
- Advocates
- Counselors
- Case workers
- Community partners
- Parents
- Others
The Team will assess the following to determine the effectiveness of HWC: academic achievements; truancies; and disciplinary reports. The meeting will not focus on specific cases.
South Carolina Mental Wellness Collaborative
- Our focus is to educate, support, and collaborate with stakeholders within South Carolina to increase access to mental wellness support within schools and the community.
- Trauma-Informed Trainings
- The SCMWC can provide trauma foundations to all school staff including, teachers, administrators, custodians, bus drivers, administrative assistants, and any personnel who work at the school.
- Collaboration with School Mental Health
- The SCMWC will work closely with schools to ensure that students receive access to supports.
- Mental Wellness Model
- Our team is designing a mental wellness model that encompasses best practice for schools to adapt into their school producres to support a mental wellness apporach.