How Morgan Hill Unified Supports Student Mental Health and Wellness

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:   / swift-jessica-901b031a  
Website: https://www.mhusd.org/