Washington schools are required by RCW 28A.320.127 to screen, recognize, and respond to indicators of students’ social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health (SEBMH). This professional learning session is designed specifically for building principals, Building Leadership Teams (Tier 1), and Student Support Teams (Tier 2/3) who are preparing to scale universal SEBMH screening within their school.

In this session, teams will develop a clear understanding of what universal screening is (and is not), why it is a Tier 1 system essential within Washington’s MTSS Framework, and how it connects to the school’s existing behavior, attendance, SEL, and student support structures. Participants will learn how universal screening strengthens the Prevent–Detect–Connect model by supporting early identification, equitable decision-making, and timely access to intervention.

Using OSPI’s Universal SEBMH Screening Model Template and guided by their ESD coach, teams will assess their current building systems, clarify team roles and responsibilities, identify readiness strengths and gaps, and begin shaping an initial action plan. Teams will also explore procedures for staff communication, student support pathways, and continuous data-based decision making to ensure screening is safe, culturally responsive, and sustainable.

Following this PD, buildings will receive continued coaching support to install and refine the systems, teaming routines, and practices necessary for high-quality, building-wide implementation.