School-Based Diversion Initiative (SBDI) Toolkit
A community resource for reducing school-based arrests and exclusionary discipline
The School-Based Diversion Initiative (SBDI) Toolkit was designed as a resource for school administrators to decrease in-school arrests and exclusionary discipline (e.g., out-of-school suspensions and expulsions) by connecting at-risk students to community-based mental health services using Connecticut’s local Mobile Crisis teams. The principles outlined in the toolkit can be applied by schools at little to no cost.
Please note that we are currently in the process of updating the SBDI toolkit. While the general principles remain accurate, some details (such as specific program/resource names) may have changed since publication. Please contact us with any questions - or to get help using the toolkit in your school or district!
About SBDI
The Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative (SBDI) is designed to prevent in-school arrests and reduce out-of-school suspensions and expulsions for youth experiencing emotional or behavioral health challenges.
SBDI is a school-level initiative that engages teachers, staff, administrators, and school resource officers through consultation, expert training, and capacity-building activities. SBDI is an effective strategy to increase access for students and families to mental health prevention supports and treatment services in the school and local community.
SBDI was developed as a component of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Models for Change Mental Health/Juvenile Justice Action Network. The SBDI model was initially funded and overseen by the Judicial Branch’s Court Support Services Division (CSSD) and the Department of Children and Families (DCF). Later the State Department of Education (SDE) and the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) joined as funding partners.
The Child Health and Development Institute (CHDI) was a model co-developer and has served as the SBDI Coordinating Center since the program's inception.
Our work: School mental health
Learn more about CHDI's work to build schools' capacity to support students' mental health and well-being.