Leading with Care: How Sulphur Springs Union Supports Student Mental Health & Safety

In today’s episode, host Todd Schmid sits down with Paul Frisina, Executive Director of Special Education and Student Support Services at Sulphur Springs Union School District in Santa Clarita, California. Paul shares his 25-year journey from school psychologist to district leader and offers a firsthand look at how his K–6 district is addressing today’s growing mental health needs.We explore the rise in self-harm among elementary students, safety risks like elopement, and how Sulphur Springs brings together psychologists, social workers, and behavioral teams to provide cohesive, student-centered care. Paul also opens up about partnering with families through conflict, supporting LGBTQ+ students with empathy and respect, and how technology and community providers help extend mental health access beyond the classroom.Whether you lead student services, special education, or wellness programs, you’ll find practical insights on collaboration, compassion, and keeping the “whole child” at the heart of every decision.Key Moments00:00 From school psychologist to executive district leader04:02 Tackling elopement and campus safety in elementary schools06:05 Partnering with families while protecting student autonomy08:01 Addressing post-pandemic rises in self-harm and student threats10:38 Building a unified student support system (psych–SW–BCBA)14:12 Using virtual therapy and community partnerships for continuity18:30 Staff training and proactive identification of at-risk students22:27 Supporting LGBTQ+ students and navigating family challenges29:45 Evolving threat assessments for disability-related behaviors35:14 The power of staffing, teamwork, and proactive leadershipConnect with Paul FrisinaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-frisina-b6109021/ Website: https://www.sssd.k12.ca.us/