Building Proactive Student Safety and Mental Health Support with Jim Anderson

Today’s episode features Jim Anderson, Director of Student Support Services at Arcadia Unified School District in California. With nearly 10,000 students in his care, Anderson shares how his district is building a proactive culture of student safety and mental health, tackling one of the most urgent challenges facing schools today.

From suicide prevention policies and crisis teams to wellness centers and digital wellness initiatives, Anderson offers a comprehensive look at how Arcadia is addressing rising student stress, anxiety, and suicide risk. He discusses the pressures students face in high-achievement environments, the importance of early intervention, and the role peers often play in saving lives.

The conversation also explores how staff well-being ties directly to student safety, why every school has a dedicated counselor, and how community partnerships like Care Solace are helping families access critical services. Anderson closes with lessons learned, practical advice for districts beginning this work, and a call to share best practices openly.

Key Moments
05:09 Youth Suicide Prevention Crisis
06:50 Preteen Suicide: Beyond COVID-19 Causes
11:03 "Developing School Cell Phone Policy"
15:36 "Care Solace: Parental Support Services"
17:58 School Crisis Team Overview
22:18 Student Mental Health Reentry Plans
24:00 Reducing Mental Health Stigma in Asians
27:14 "Identifying Students in Distress"
31:26 Organizing Activities for Student Support
32:50 Teachers' Stress and Job Dissatisfaction

Connect with Jim Anderson
LinkedIn:   / james-anderson-9b2a233  
Website: https://www.ausd.net/