Mental Health Support

The first line of support for a child experiencing signs of stress is to work with the classroom teacher to ensure that the classroom community including peers and adults in the classroom are addressing the child’s emotional needs.

Communication from the family in case of a family crisis, trauma, or any emotionally charged experiences outside the school can help school staff understand why a child’s moods or behaviors may be changing.

In collaboration with the teacher and the principal, additional support may be brought in from Piedmont Avenue Elementary’s social worker, Ms. Yolanda Olloway-Smith. With parent approval students that have Medi-Cal coverage also qualify to work with a therapist from A Better Way.  

District mental health support providers may be consulted by school staff if the child’s stress is having an effect on learning or social skill development. Parents are also encouraged to work with the child’s health care provider to identify resources that may be helpful.