The well-being of students and staff is the foundation for the success of the entire community.
At the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health, we aim to positively impact school mental health and well-being across Iowa and beyond through a combination of research, training, professional development, and clinical services.
11,200+
K-12 educators engaged in professional learning opportunities
From Oct. 2023 - Dec. 2024
1,400+
individual + group counseling sessions with K-12 students and school staff
From Oct. 2023 - Dec. 2024
5,200+
university/college faculty and staff trained in mental health and well-being best practices
From Oct. 2023 - Dec. 2024
$ 14M+
research grant funding awarded
From Oct. 2023 - Dec. 2024
What is School Mental Health?
School mental health considers the social, emotional, and behavioral health of individuals, groups, and systems within a school community. Prioritizing school mental health and well-being allows students and staff to function effectively and be good, productive citizens.
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Upcoming Events

Working with Students in Distress Master Class
You are in your office, thinking about a recent interaction with a student that left you troubled. Many things are running through your mind. Is this a big deal? Should I call someone? Can I help this student myself? Should I even get involved?
Feel prepared and confident to support students in distress with the Working with Students in Distress Master Class —a 4-part, in-person training designed to equip you with the confidence, language, and practical tools to navigate these challenging moments...

Breathe, Move, Thrive: Mindful Movement Strategies for the Classroom
This interactive session introduces educators to mindful movement and yoga-inspired practices that support well-being, focus, and emotional regulation—for both students and themselves. Participants will learn why these short, intentional movement breaks matter and how they can enhance learning and reduce stress. The session includes guided practice and take-home examples you can immediately try in your own setting. No special clothing or prior experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness...

Show Me the Data: How to Collect Accurate Behavioral Data on Students
This professional development will provide educators with practical strategies to gather reliable, consistent information that reflects student behavior. Participants will learn how to select the right data collection methods, avoid common errors, and use the data to drive effective decision-making and support student success.
Learning Goals
Participants will be able to write operational definitions of behavior.
Participants will be able to identify and describe at least three common types of...

Supporting Students Through Grief and Loss
Grief affects students in many ways. This webinar helps K–12 educators recognize the different ways grief may appear and offers practical strategies to provide meaningful support and coping skills to students experiencing loss.
What You Will Learn:
Define aspects of grief and loss.
Discuss various presentations of grief and loss.
Identify common emotions associated with grief and loss.
Learn ways to emotionally support students experiencing grief and loss.
Learn coping skills to teach students...