The Critical Role of Universal Screeners in the MTSS Framework

Every student deserves the chance to thrive—but ensuring that happens isn’t easy. As an educational leader, you juggle countless challenges to provide equitable support for all students. A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), paired with early identification and intervention, can help schools cut through the complexity and give students the academic, social, and behavioral support … Read more

Building Foundations for Success: Practical Strategies for Tier 1 Mental Well-Being in Schools

Smiling schoolboy writing on a class at elementary school

Without a solid emotional support foundation for all students, schools often face more disruptions, declining academic performance, and higher teacher burnout.  This is especially true in Title 1 schools, where students may already be dealing with additional stressors like trauma and food insecurity. Failing to address mental health can intensify these challenges, making it even … Read more

The Ripple Effect of Caregiver Engagement: Transforming Behavior, Academics, and School Communities

What if a critical element to improve student behavior and boost academic success isn’t in the classroom? Many educators and school administrators face a recurring challenge: behavioral interventions and academic strategies often fall short of their full potential due to a lack of continuity between school and home. While schools provide structured environments and individualized … Read more

2024 State of Student Mental Health Report: The Alarming Trends and How Schools Must Respond

Schools today are facing an undeniable reality—students are struggling with mental health challenges at unprecedented levels, affecting students’ academic success, emotional well-being, and long-term potential. Anxiety, depression, and emotional distress have become constant companions for many, disrupting not only their learning but their overall well-being. Educators, administrators, and mental health professionals are doing all they … Read more

From Burnout to Balance: 9 Strategies to Retain Special Education Teachers in Challenging Times

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 86% of public schools reported difficulties hiring teachers, and 83% faced challenges hiring non-teaching staff, such as classroom aides and mental health professionals, for the 2023-24 school year. The challenge to retain exceptional educators—especially in special education—has never been more pressing. Schools today are tasked with … Read more

Suicide Prevention: How to Recognize Distress and Respond to Student Behavior

As National Suicide Prevention Month unfolds, the conversation about mental health takes on a heightened sense of urgency, especially within our K-12 schools. The pressures students face today—whether academic, social, or personal—can sometimes feel overwhelming, and these pressures often manifest as signs of distress that may go unnoticed until it’s too late. Recognizing these signs … Read more

A Lifeline for Special Education: How eLuma Helped Districts Overcome Their Greatest Challenges

As the needs of students and schools continue to evolve, the demand for innovative, flexible, and effective special education solutions is more pressing than ever. At eLuma, we’re dedicated to surpassing the expectations of the schools and districts we serve by delivering top-tier teletherapy services that make a real difference in the lives of students, … Read more

Transforming Student Well-Being: Evidence-Based Practices That Make a Difference

Are you confident that your school is fully equipped to address the rising mental and behavioral health challenges among students? As educators, we know that student wellness is not just a priority—it’s a critical concern. Over the past decade, shifts in the K-12 educational landscape have made this concern even more pressing. The COVID-19 pandemic … Read more

From Stigma to Support: Guiding Parents with Effective Student Behavior Conversations

Are you finding it increasingly difficult to have tough conversations with caregivers about their student’s behavior issues? Does the stigma around social-emotional learning (SEL) make these discussions even more challenging?  You’re not alone. Navigating these conversations is one of the hardest parts of being an educator today. Guardians may be upset, and students may be struggling, … Read more