Mental Health Literacy Initiative for Educators

CETE is partnering with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (DEW) and faculty from The Ohio State University’s College of Education and Human Ecology (EHE) to develop a statewide Mental Health Literacy Online Learning Initiative.

In response to the growing youth mental health crisis, the project aims to equip Ohio educators with accessible, research-informed online learning experiences that strengthen their ability to recognize student mental health needs, reduce stigma, and promote supportive school environments. The initiative includes six online learning units, 18 modules in total, focused on school-based mental health, prevention and school climate, relationships and connectedness, digital media and substance use, and sustaining mental health partnerships.

The initiative is strengthened through collaboration with:

EHE Faculty Partners:
Tanya Middleton, Assistant Professor, Counselor Education
Brett Zyromski, Associate Professor and Program Chair, Counselor Education

Project activities are guided by a systems-level framework grounded in evidence-based practice, adult learning principles, and translational research. CETE’s instructional designers and content experts are leading the development of scalable, accessible professional learning that supports both educator well-being and student success. These online units will be released statewide beginning in 2026 and will serve as a key component of Ohio’s efforts to strengthen school-based mental health supports.

Sponsor: Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (DEW)

Principal Investigator and project Contact: Dr. Gabrielle Johnson

Award Total: $661,500