Implementing and maintaining school-based mental health services in a large, urban school district

The Dallas (Texas) Public Schools established the first school-based health center in the United States in 1969. In 1993 a partnership between two sch ool principals, a school mental health professional, and the medical direct or of the county mental health center was the impetus for the first compreh ensive school-based mental health center in Texas. In 1995 the programs joi ned together as Youth and Family Centers (YFCs) to provide physical health, mental health, and other support services to students and their families. The 10 strategically located school-based centers are directed by licensed mental health professionals employed by the district who lead a multidiscip linary team physical health and mental health providers. Students served by the YFCs have fewer discipline problems, course failures, and school absen ces.