Mental and Behavioral Health

Welcome to the January Edition of the Region 10 Mental and Behavioral Health Newsletter!

As we step into a new year, we’re excited to continue partnering with you to prioritize the mental and behavioral well-being of students, educators, and school communities across Region 10. This edition is filled with resources, updates, and strategies designed to support your efforts in fostering safe, inclusive, and trauma-sensitive environments. Whether you’re looking for fresh insights on implementing restorative practices, tips for building resilience in your classroom, or updates on upcoming professional development opportunities, we’re here to help you make a lasting impact. Together, let’s make 2025 a year of connection, growth, and care for all.

Meet Haywood Thomas.

Haywood is a seasoned educator with a proven track record of success in supporting schools and students with behavioral challenges. With a deep passion for working with self-contained behavior classrooms, he has dedicated 17 years to developing innovative strategies and interventions to address complex behavioral needs.

Beyond his work in schools, Haywood has also contributed to the broader field of education through his involvement with organizations like MHMR of Tarrant County, Texas Workforce Commission and Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

Currently, he serves as a Mental and Behavioral Consultant, providing expert guidance and support to individuals and families. Haywood is a certified trainer for Youth Mental Health First Aid, Psychological First Aid, Restorative Practices and other programs, equipping individuals with the skills to recognize and respond to mental health crises. He is committed to promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma.

Haywood is married and the parent of three adult children. His passion for helping others, combined with his expertise in behavior and education, makes him a valuable asset to any school or community.

Join Us for the 3rd Session of the Mental Health Leadership Series!

We’re thrilled to invite you to the next session of our Mental Health Leadership Series, featuring the insightful expertise of Natalie Fikac.

In this session, we’ll dive into practical strategies and valuable knowledge to enhance wellness and foster a culture of care within your school community. Whether you're looking to strengthen your leadership role in supporting mental health or seeking ways to empower your team, this session is designed to equip you with tools that make a meaningful difference.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and lead with wellness in mind!

• January 21, 2025 | "Start with Hello" Training Program | Register | Virtual - The training offered by TxSSC and Sandy Hook Promise is 2.5 hours and includes various activities to help schools incorporate this training into their culture.

• February 22-23, 2025 (LIVE) | 2025 Child & School Counseling Summit | Register | Virtual (On Demand February 22 - April 20, 2025)

• March 13, 2025 / May 8, 2025 | Mental and Behavioral Health Webinar Series | Register March | Register May | Virtual/Webinar (Past recordings available)

HB3 (88R) - Mental Health Training Commissioner's Rule Adopted - This rule, identified as 19 TAC § 153.1015, mandates that school district employees who regularly interact with students complete an evidence-based mental health training program. Currently, the primary recognized training programs identified are Mental Health First Aid and Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA). However, local education agencies (LEAs) can offer a locally selected course if it meets the requirements of subsection (d)(3)(A)(J). This alternative course can be developed and provided by a partnering organization, such as a mental health agency or an ESC.

• Date Adopted: December 2, 2024 (TEC § 22.904)

Region 10’s Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, and school staff how to help an adolescent who is experiencing a mental health/addiction challenge or crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders. This course is provided by educators for educators. Educators will receive 11 CPE hours.

01/16/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

01/29/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

2/12/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

02/17/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

03/04/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

03/27/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

04/08/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

04/23/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

05/01/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

05/13/2025 Youth Mental Health First Aid

We understand that leaving your district to attend trainings can be challenging, especially when finding time to secure a substitute and step away from your classroom. To support your professional growth while accommodating your busy schedule, we are excited to announce a series of asynchronous courses coming soon to My Professional Learning. These on-demand courses will allow you to enhance your skills at your own pace, covering essential topics such as Functional Behavior Assessments, Behavior Contracts, Individual & Visual Schedules, Social Stories, and Behavior Intervention Plans. Stay tuned—these valuable resources will soon be available on your computer!