Tiered Levels of Student Support continue at all schools.  Each school has established a system of referral and communication related to collaboratively assisting students in need related to behavioral health needs.  Building level teams meet regularly and review student referrals, data, and determine interventions as needed. The Tiered System includes:

• Tier I  – All adults are to utilize the Trauma-Informed approach at all times – especially when working with students in the classroom, on the bus, and at co/extra-curricular activities.  Tier I emphasizes an overall welcoming environment and kindness.

• Tier II – Students in need of additional support beyond best practices in the classroom can be considered for support with increased intensity. Upon formal review, students may be eligible for small group therapeutic counseling services. Parent involvement is a core component of support. Tier II groups may address topical areas such as anxiety, depression or grief.

• Tier III – Increasing in intensity and frequency, students may be referred to more intensive individual therapeutic counseling support. Students receiving Tier III support may be experiencing significant, life-impacting challenges, such as anxiety or depression. Coordinated and monitored by the school psychologist and student’s school counselor, a schedule will be developed with district providers/partners to provide individualized support.

Interventions are provided by:

• All DSD Faculty and Staff

• DSD Guidance Counselors

• DSD School Psychologists

• Clinical Psychologist (Partners)

• Social Workers (Partners)

Interventions, including those arranged with partners, are considered and scheduled with each school team.  Each referral is evaluated by the team and interventions are considered in the context of student data.

Parents and families should speak to the student’s teacher(s), guidance counselor, and or principals with questions and to learn more about the System of Tiered Support at DSD.