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In June 2022, the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health (formerly the Iowa Center for School Mental Health) awarded $1 million in research grants to support interventions to improve social, emotional, behavioral, or psychological outcomes in Iowa’s PreK-12 schools. Each project is two years and will run from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2024.
The “Higher Edge” Spotlight: Amanda Seemann, Indian Hills Community College
Thursday, March 19, 2026
In this "Higher Edge" spotlight, meet Amanda Seemann from Indian Hills Community College.
Psychological Safety in the Workplace: Is This Really a Thing?
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Would you know psychological safety if you've experienced it? Discover why psychological safety matters, how it actually shows up on campus, and intentional strategies for fostering it in your workplace.
In the news: UI Scanlan Center for School Mental Health sees interest in eating disorder support
Monday, March 2, 2026
Taylor Ford, MSW, LISW, has been instrumental in increasing access to eating disorder support for Iowa's K-12 students, school staff, and parents. She was recently featured in the Iowa Capital Dispatch, highlighting our clinic's eating disorder evaluations and therapy services.
Relationship Mapping: Ensuring All Students Feel Connected at School
Sunday, March 1, 2026
Relationship mapping is a proven way to improve school climate and conditions of learning. Try implementing this strategy to strengthen adult-student relationships in your classroom or school.
The “Higher Edge” Spotlight: Becca Papian, Des Moines Area Community College-Urban Campus
Thursday, February 12, 2026
In this "Higher Edge" spotlight, meet Becca Papian from Des Moines Area Community College-Urban Campus.
Resetting the Breaker: Campus Guide to Repairing Emotional Ruptures in Work Relationships
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Relationships are a part of our campus infrastructure. However, relational rupture is bound to happen. When it does, how do we move towards restoration? Learn the process of repair and 5 practical actions to take to move toward repair.
Building Trust, One Student at a Time: Kelli Johnson’s Mission to Make Students Feel Seen
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Kelli Johnson, school counselor at Parkview Elementary (Marion Independent School District, Iowa), has been named the February 2026 Iowa School Mental Health Hero of the Month.
In the news: UI professors begin new podcast to bring awareness about education challenges
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
University of Iowa College of Education professors Kari Vogelgesang and Mark McDermott have begun co-hosting their own podcast to discuss topics related to teacher wellness and challenges in education. The “EDUcation Unscripted and Xplored” podcast aired its first two episodes in January and is available on the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health website, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.
Supporting Students with Eating Disorders: A Guide for Educators
Sunday, February 1, 2026
Educators are often the first to notice warning signs of eating disorders. Learn what to look for, why early intervention matters, and how to support students.
Understanding Childhood Anxiety
Friday, January 2, 2026
Anxiety affects millions of K–12 students. Explore common anxiety disorders, what symptoms look like in kids, and strategies that help students feel safe and supported.