Sioux Falls Schools Serve 125 Students in Mental Health Pilot

Getting mental health support just got easier for students in Sioux Falls, and the early results are already turning heads.

The Rooted in Schools program has served more than 125 students across five public schools since launching in late 2025. Licensed therapists now work directly in schools, meeting with about 25 students each week at Washington High School, Whittier Middle School, and three elementary schools.

The three-year pilot, funded by the Seed for Success Foundation, tackles a common barrier families face: access. Instead of juggling transportation, missed classes, and scheduling conflicts, students can now see a therapist in a familiar place during the school day.

"Students and their families place a great deal of trust in our schools," said Superintendent Jamie Nold. "By offering mental health therapy in a familiar, supportive environment, Rooted in Schools therapists help students build resilience and succeed both academically and socially."

The numbers tell a promising story. Students in the program have seen a 14% increase in attendance. Schools have also recorded fewer disruptive behaviors among participating students.

The program requires a teacher's recommendation and parent permission. Avera Behavioral Health administers the services in partnership with the Sioux Falls School District, with insurance covering most costs and the foundation supporting uninsured students.

The Ripple Effect

Some schools already have waitlists, showing just how much families need this kind of support. What started as identifying gaps in student services has grown into a model that other communities could follow.

Thomas Otten, Avera's Vice President of Behavioral Health, sees the program as prevention in action. "Students can't reach their full potential if access, time and resources are a barrier to behavioral health care," he said.

The partnership between the school district, Avera, and the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation shows what happens when organizations work together to solve real problems. They're tracking attendance and mental health outcomes throughout the pilot to measure long-term success.

When students get the support they need, everyone wins.