Los Alamitos USD will be launching a Strengths Survey, designed to help shape the wellness programs and initiatives at our school sites. As part of this effort, your student will be participating in the Strengths Survey Pilot along with other students in 4th, 7th, and 10th grades. The survey will also be used to gather input for the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP), helping guide districtwide goals and supports.

The survey results will offer valuable insights into how students are experiencing school and will help our school community strengthen the support we provide. These insights will guide efforts such as monthly wellness initiatives, targeted classroom and small group lessons, and activities that enhance our overall school culture. Please read this form for information about the survey, and for instructions on how to withdraw your student. 

Survey Content and Administration
The survey will ask students to self-reflect on important skills such as self-management, emotion regulation, self-confidence, social awareness, and supportive relationships. They will complete the survey at school in both the Winter and Spring. The survey should take no more than 15-20 minutes. You can review the full survey questions at the links provided below.

Elementary Strengths Survey
Secondary Strengths Survey

The Survey is Voluntary
Your student does not have to take the survey. If a student doesn’t feel like they have enough information to answer a question they may skip it. Additionally, parents are able to request their student’s individual survey results. Both group and individual survey responses will be reviewed to identify opportunities for skill development. They may also be used, along with other information, to help determine if additional support would be helpful—such as classwide skills lessons, or recommending small-group counseling. 

We encourage all students in the pilot grades to participate. At Los Alamitos Unified, our commitment extends beyond building a strong academic foundation. We also strive to help students develop essential skills that will support their growth and long term success. Students are key partners in this effort, and we value the opportunity to hear their voices. If you do not want your student to complete the survey, you must notify your site Principal in writing.

For survey related questions, please contact Danielle Grissom, Mental Health Service Specialist, at 562-799-4700 ext 80490 or by email at Dgrissom@losal.org. 

Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) 

In 2024, the State of California launched the Children & Youth Behavioral Health Fee Schedule as part of the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI). This program allows school districts to receive reimbursement for eligible health-related services provided at school, with no cost-sharing for families.

Because of this change, school districts like Los Alamitos USD can now be reimbursed for the actual cost of services, bringing new state and federal funds directly into our schools to support student well-being. In order to access reimbursement, the school will ask for your child's medical insurance information.

No Impact on Your Insurance

Sharing your insurance information does not affect your premiums, benefits, or coverage. The information is used solely to determine whether the District is eligible for reimbursement.

There will be no cost to parents or caregivers for students who receive services eligible for reimbursement under the CYBHI fee schedule program (i.e., no co-pays). Receiving services at school will not reduce or impact students or their families' ability to obtain care outside of school.

While we encourage families to provide insurance information to support increased access to care for students, as a guardian you have the right to withhold consent to participate in this initiative. Your student will continue to be supported with the services they need regardless of your participation in this program.

What If I Don’t Have Health Insurance?

That’s okay—just indicate that on the form. Your response continues to help us understand our students’ needs and ensures that we’re doing everything possible to support all families. Whether or not you provide your insurance, your students will continue to receive the services they need. However, completing this form ensures we can maintain and expand these services for all students.

Your Information Is Protected

All information is protected by privacy laws (HIPAA and FERPA). It will only be used to determine whether the District can seek reimbursement for eligible services. It will not impact your insurance, premiums, or care.

For additional information, please access the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document.

Thank you for your support in helping Los Alamitos USD continue to provide high-quality support and services for every student.
 

Parent Guidance: If Suicide Risk Is Present or Suspected

If you believe your child may be at risk for suicide, act immediately. Your prompt response is critical to ensuring your child’s safety.

1. Contact Emergency Support Right Away

• Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), or call 911 in an emergency.

• Do not leave your child unsupervised at any time.

2. Notify School Staff Immediately

• Directly contact your child’s School Counselor, School Psychologist, or a School Administrator (Principal or Vice Principal).

• Do not delay and do not rely on a general email or message.

Helping Youth in Crisis: Resources, Warning Signs, and Protective Strategies

Helping Youth in Crisis: Resources, Warning Signs, and Protective Strategies

The American Foundations for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

• What it Offers: Excellent, research-based information on risk factors, warning signs, protective factors, statistics, and what to do if you are concerned about your child. 

• Best For: Understanding the facts, learning how to talk to a struggling teen, and finding support groups for survivors of loss

• Teens and Suicide: What Parents Should Know

The Jed Foundation (JED)

• What it Offers: A focus on adolescent and young adult mental health, providing guides and toolkits for families on topics like building resilience, recognizing emotional distress, and knowing when and how to seek professional help

• Best For: Proactive strategies, promoting mental health wellness, and providing resources specifically targeted at teens and young adults

• I Want to Help My Teen: Your young person is navigating the demands of school, work, and relationships while trying to figure life out — and you’re trying to help them become a resilient young adult.  Explore JED’s resources to help you recognize mental health warning signs, start meaningful conversations, and know the difference between normal growing pains and distress so you can provide the support your child needs. 

Say Something Anonymous Reporting System Information

The Say Something Anonymous Reporting System is a confidential tip line that allows individuals to submit secure & anonymous safety concerns. Tips can be submitted via text, phone, mobile app, or internet web browser. Please see details below.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential, 24/7 support from trained counselors for anyone experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or a mental health crisis. For additional information, review 988 Fact Sheet.

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor for free, 24/7 support via text message for any type of emotional or mental health concern.

OC Crisis Assessment Team (CAT) – Call 1-866-830-6011 for 24/7 mobile crisis services in Orange County, including on-site mental health evaluations, crisis intervention, and referrals.

Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ+ Youth) – Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678 for free, confidential 24/7 support from counselors trained to assist LGBTQ+ youth in crisis.

OC Navigator – Visit ocnavigator.org to explore local Orange County resources for mental health, housing, food, transportation, legal aid, and other community services.

Suicide Prevention Board Policy