Using Data to Inform Program Design and Implementation and Make the Case for School Mental Health

Abstract

This article describes an evaluation and research system developed over many years by the Minneapolis Public Schools Expanded School Mental Health Program. The authors describe the rationale underlying the systems development, the challenges encountered and solutions developed throughout building the system, and the future directions for research and evaluation. Use of data to continuously inform program design and implementation will be discussed. Examples of preliminary program evaluation outcomes and results from two quasi-experimental studies will be presented. Recommendations for future research are discussed, and the need for more longitudinal studies investigating the impact of expanded school health on educational behaviors and academic achievement is emphasized.