From its inception in 2003, the coalition has been committed to connecting schools, families, and mental health. Data have shown schools that implement PBIS, provide on-site mental health support, and have opportunities for parents and families to be involved in the education and well-being of their children are more successful. School Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) focuses on prevention of behavior problems. For all students, including those with emotional, behavioral, and/or mental health challenges, PBIS provides an environment that prevents problems through instruction and acknowledgment of appropriate behavior.

Currently over 350 SC schools are implementing PBIS. School-Based Mental Health (SMH) seeks to bring effective mental health services that are non-stigmatizing and easily accessible to youth and families in the community. The program involves partnerships between mental health and schools to provide comprehensive services. Currently SMH clinicians are working in nearly 400 SC schools. Youth and family involvement is achieved through providing “family-driven” and “youth-guided” services and supports, meaning that youth and families have a primary decision-making role in the care of their own lives, as well as the policies and procedures governing their care.