Policy

Every community and state has a variety of formal groups that create policy by defining priorities for health and mental health services. Local legislators, elected officials, and influential community members create policy as they influence what kinds of programs get funded, and what needs are prioritized. SS/HS Initiatives can garner support by aligning themselves with those policies and demonstrating how SS/HS outcomes fall within community priorities.

Policy also plays an important role within the school district. District policy may guide many areas where SS/HS Initiatives seek to make change, including the implementation of prevention programs in the classroom, positive school climate efforts, as well as norms for behavior and consequences for unacceptable behavior. Implementing or changing district policy is an important avenue for establishing systems change within the district.