Abstract
This study described and explored the effectiveness of behavioral health intervention programs at Student Support Centers at two South Sacramento elementary schools located in high-need and low-income neighborhoods. These Centers aim to meet students’ academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs, as well as address other life challenges that students and their families experienced in the community. Existing data for 67 students was gathered through the Developmental Assets tool, the WhyTry Program assessment, and Bi-Weekly Progress Reports. While service and respondent data failed to show statistically significant findings, several observations that have clinical or practice significance have been identified. Students are motivated, goal oriented, have family support and parent involvement. In addition, through thematic analysis, three themes emerged from teachers’ responses on the Bi-Weekly Progress Reports, which include 1) improvement and growth in social and emotional learning (SEL) skills, 2) peer relations/friendships, and 3) academics. Overall, findings lean towards supporting the hypotheses. The Student Support Centers have done a fine job and are extremely active in providing a variety of services to the students in order to respond to the needs of students. A more coordinated and standardized approach in service delivery and assessment, with adequate resources, could further the effectiveness and evaluation of these important services.