Abstract
It is the position of the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) that registered, professional school nurses serve a vital role in promoting positive behavioral health outcomes in students through evidence-based programs and curricula in schools and communities. Behavioral health, which encompasses mental health, is as critical to academic success as physical well-being. As members of interdisciplinary teams, school nurses collaborate with school personnel, community healthcare professionals, students, and families in the assessment, identification, intervention, referral, and follow-up of children in need of behavioral health services. School nurses, because of their regular access to students, are uniquely qualified to identify students with potential behavioral health concerns. School nurses can serve as advocates, facilitators, and counselors of behavioral health services within the school environment and in the community. [This position statement replaces the position statement titled "Mental Health of Students" (ED540396). See also "The School Nurse's Role in Behavioral Health of Students. Position Statement" (ED581612).]