Cricket Meehan - Learning about the Ohio School-Based Center of Excellence

Amanda Hampton hosts Dr. Cricket Meehan from the Ohio School-based Center of Excellence for Prevention and Early Intervention at Miami University. They discuss the center's essential initiatives, such as the Ohio School Wellness Initiative, which focuses on supporting both students and staff in mental health and well-being. Dr. Meehan highlights the importance of everyone playing a role in fostering a healthy and thriving community and shares insights on the upcoming Ohio School Success Conference. Tune in to learn about innovative models in mental health support tailored for Ohio's schools and communities.

About the Guest:

Cricket Meehan is a dedicated mental health professional serving as the Director of the Ohio School-Based Center of Excellence for Prevention and Early Intervention at Miami University. With a storied career that began in 1998, Cricket has been at the forefront of initiatives designed to bolster the well-being of students and staff within Ohio's educational system. Her extensive experience includes the establishment and adaptation of evidence-based programs aimed at creating robust mental health support networks within schools. With a deep personal and professional commitment to improving mental health outcomes, Cricket's leadership continues to make significant strides in the field.

Key Takeaways:

• Ohio School-Based Center of Excellence: Understand the comprehensive role the center plays in enhancing mental health and well-being in Ohio schools through prevention and early intervention strategies.

• Student Assistance Program (SAP) Model: Learn how the SAP model is designed to provide a full continuum of care for students, integrating seamlessly with existing PBIS systems in Ohio schools.

• Staff Wellness Framework: Gain insights into the newly developed framework aimed at improving the health and well-being of school staff, promoting a supportive environment for both teachers and students.

• Ohio School Wellness Initiative: Explore this significant project funded through COVID relief dollars, emphasizing support for both students and staff in the wake of the pandemic.

• Everyone Plays a Role: Discover the inclusive approach of the center, encouraging all members of the community to participate in mental health and well-being initiatives.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Our vision is that all Ohio's children and the adults who support them are healthy and thriving." – Cricket Meehan

2. "We're really talking about supporting the mental health and the well-being of our students and the adults who support them." – Cricket Meehan

3. "The Ohio School Wellness Initiative came about based on the COVID pandemic... Ohio asked us to create a student assistance program model." – Cricket Meehan

4. "Healthy and thriving may look different, but it should feel good to everyone who is at that place." – Cricket Meehan

5. "Everyone plays a role in supporting the mental health and well-being of yourself and our young people." – Cricket Meehan

Resources:

• Ohio School-Based Center of Excellence for Prevention and Early Intervention: OhioSBCOE.org

• Ohio School Wellness Initiative: Explore the details of this significant initiative aimed at both students and school staff.

• Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS): Learn more about this state-mandated practice in Ohio schools.

Stay tuned to the School and Wellness Podcast for more conversations that aim to enhance the educational landscape through innovative mental health and well-being initiatives. Listen to the full episode and don’t miss out on these enlightening discussions!

Discover more resources from the Ohio School-Based Center of Excellence for Prevention & Early Intervention at OhioSBCOE.org.