Scenarios
Question: How should staff approach mental health concerns sensitively?
Scenario: Casey is an employed scholar who was previously very engaged with DWD staff and has become withdrawn over the last 6 months. He appears overwhelmed and disclosed feeling "mentally exhausted." Staff conducted check-ins and encouraged counseling but he has not followed through with seeking this support.
*Provide a warm handoff to the counseling resource with his permission *Respect Casey's autonomy; don't force counseling *Maintain low-pressure check-ins on a consistent basis *Focus on practical job support - speaking with him about EAP at his job, inquiring about what is overwhelming him and helping him with a schedule etc.
It is mandatory for a referral to be filled out before a SIS can begin their support of a scholar. An email or verbal referral will not be sufficient.
True, a referral must be completed before support can begin.
What information is most important for SIS staff to know immediately?
The basics: Scholar information, pre-screen qualifications, reason for referral, interventions already attempted, risk level and scholar readiness.
Which current SIS team member does not have a social work degree?
Melanice
Question: Does this situation meet SIS criteria, why or why not?
Scenario: Jordan has missed 3 training classes over the last month. She consistently reported low mood over the past month and is also facing homelessness. Staff completed several check-ins, but Jordan has stopped consistently responding to staff outreach.
Yes, this barrier has lasted at least 30 days, is a repeated issue, multiple barriers are impacting stability and she is in crisis.
This situation does NOT qualify for SIS support, true or false? Taylor recently obtained employment through the Employment program but has already received two write-ups for tardiness. Taylor shared they are struggling with childcare and unreliable transportation. Staff have coached Taylor on communication with the employer and provided local childcare resources, but attendance issues continue.
False, the scholar is at risk of losing employment due to her ongoing childcare challenges. She does qualify for more intensive, ongoing support from SIS.
What situations count as a "risk of losing stability?"
Possible answers: Housing Insecurity, Mental health challenges, DV, Several write ups at work for attendance or behavioral concerns Other barriers
Name at least 3 cities in Texas the SIS team are currently serving.
Dallas, Austin, Rio Grande Valley, Houston, Killeen, Waco, San Antonio, College Station, San Marcus, Coastal Bend and more!
Name at least 2 SIS staff who held a healthcare license previously
Shelly (CNA), Sherna (CNA), Sasha (CMT)