Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the mental health and social-emotional learning needs among students and educators in Iowa were on the rise. These growing needs were outpacing the systems’ ability to deliver necessary supports and services. The pandemic has only heightened the need to support the social, emotional, behavioral, and psychological well-being of children, families, and educators.

In recognition of this critical need in the state, the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health was established to improve the outcomes for Iowa’s youth by enhancing mental health literacy, reducing stigma, increasing workforce capacity, conducting rigorous and impactful research, and implementing a continuum of evidence-based supports.