In today’s episode, host Todd Schmid sits down with Jessica Swift, Director of Student Services at Morgan Hill Unified School District in California. Jessica shares his inspiring journey from science teacher to district leader, and gives us an inside look at how Morgan Hill is tackling today’s mental health challenges head-on.

We dig deep into the process of building comprehensive wellness centers—spaces designed by students, for students and learn how these centers are reshaping campus culture, reducing stigma, and delivering support exactly when and where kids need it. Jessica also talks about the power of partnerships, measuring impact through real data, and the importance of collective agency in supporting every child, every day.

From supporting students experiencing homelessness with dignity, to creative funding strategies and the evolving role of technology like teletherapy and AI, this episode is packed with actionable insights for educators, leaders, and advocates everywhere. Whether you’re just starting to explore student mental health initiatives or looking to level up your district’s supports, you won’t want to miss Jessica's honest, practical advice and inspiring vision for the future.

Key Moments

06:13 Developing School Wellness Centers

09:30 Redefining School Wellness Spaces

11:45 Home-Based Family Support Transition

14:58 Collaborative Funding Through Partnerships

18:35 Focus on Tier Two Mental Health

21:07 "Supporting Student Mental Health Programs"

24:40 Inclusive Student Wellness Tracking

26:53 "Partnerships in Tiered Support Systems"

30:39 Understanding McKinney-Vento Status

34:25 Empowering Through Self-Sufficiency Skills

39:40 Reviving Student Field Trips

42:41 AI: Love, Concerns, and Isolation

44:19 AI's Impact on Student Isolation

Connect with Jessica Swift

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swift-jessica-901b031a

Website: https://www.mhusd.org/