On this episode of “In Session,” we speak with Frank Rider, a seasoned Technical Assistance Specialist (TAS) at NCSSLE, about the capacities Local Education Agencies (LEAs) and State Education Agencies (SEAs) need to improve their school mental health programs and systems. As he nears the end of his 40 year career, Frank shares his expertise with the field at large. Specifically, he discusses common characteristics of successful change initiatives, advice for new grant managers, and what he has learned over the course of his impactful career. This discussion will be helpful for both new grantees (P2C3 and others) and those grantees who are nearing the end of their grants (MHSP 2019, P2C2, SBMH 2020, TR). This conversation is guided by NCSSLE’s Annie Knowles and Brianna Cunniff.

0:45- Welcome and introduction

2:16- Common characterstics of technical assistance (TA) recipients who have successfully facilitated change initiatives

4:28- Key characteristics of a compelling impetus for change

6:00- Recognizing the important phases of systems change for successful change initiatives

7:45- Primary advice for first time grante managers

10:43- Secondary piece of advice for new grant leaders

14:06- Lessons learned

17:29- Suggestions for technical assistance providers aiming to support successful grant funded systems change initiatives

19:08- Defining SAMHSA and GPRA

20:34- Challenges and questions for grant managers close to the end of the grany cycle

24:10- Taking an initiative to the "next level"

27:21- What Frank has learned from successful change agents through his TA work

31:14- Final takeaways and closing

For all questions or feedback, you can email ncssle@air.org. Thanks for listening!

Please note, the contents of this podcast do not necessarily represent the policy or views of the U.S. Department of Education, nor does it imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Education.