As the behavioral health crisis among students intensifies, communitywide virtual resources have become a lifeline for many, helping to address the shortage of school psychologists and social workers.
Teresa Laster, a dedicated school psychologist with over 38 years of experience, officially retired in June but returned to work for the 15th year at Craig schools due to the urgent mental and behavioral health needs of the district’s 1,912 students.
Despite her three years’ notice of retirement and multiple job postings, the school district has struggled to find qualified candidates for the position, which requires at least a master’s degree in psychology. The shortage of school psychologists is a nationwide issue, with the National Association of School Psychologists recommending a ratio of one psychologist per 500 students for comprehensive services, while the actual ratio can be as high as one counselor to 1,127 or even 5,000 students.
Recruiting school psychologists and social workers is particularly challenging in rural Colorado, where wages may be lower than in urban areas, housing costs in resort regions are prohibitive, and grant-funded positions may have inconsistent funding.
The 2023 Yampa Valley Behavioral Health Landscape Scan, commissioned by the Craig-Scheckman Family Foundation and UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center Foundation and coordinated by nonprofit The Health Partnership of Northwest Colorado, has shed light on these gaps and challenges in the mental and behavioral health support system.
The study focused on specific populations in the Yampa Valley, including youth and young adults, the LGBTQ+ community in Moffat County, adult males in traditional economies, and Latinx-identifying members of these groups. It provided a detailed look into their lived experiences and mental health needs.
Common themes emerged, highlighting a general lack of open and normalized conversation around mental health, including the associated stigma. Income inequality was also identified as a significant factor, leading to life stressors and limiting individuals’ ability to seek formal help.
To address these challenges, the community has relied on a combination of contracted online services and partnerships with nonprofit and healthcare agencies. School districts like Moffat employ virtual services for specialized care, such as speech and occupational therapy, and contract with providers to offer online psychological support. However, virtual services are seen as a temporary solution, with concerns about some students falling through the cracks.
The district also depends on communitywide teams for Individualized Service and Support, which brings together school, nonprofit, and human services staff to help eligible youth and their families access integrated multi-agency services.
Teresa Laster, who plays an essential role in Moffat County schools, manages an array of responsibilities, including acting as a family advocate, collaborating with community partners, conducting initial testing for special education students, providing training for school counselors, and handling issues related to suicide, crisis, and violent risk. Despite her retirement, Laster continues to work because of her deep dedication to the students.
Ideally, Laster would like to retire and see two school psychologists hired to meet the pressing needs of students in Moffat County schools. However, until the shortage of qualified professionals is resolved, communitywide virtual resources will continue to play a crucial role in supporting students’ mental and behavioral health needs.
