Leading with Care: How Sulphur Springs Union Supports Student Mental Health & Safety
In today’s episode, host Todd Schmid sits down with Paul Frisina, Executive Director of Special Education and Student Support Services at Sulphur Springs Union School District in Santa Clarita, California. Paul shares his 25-year journey from school psychologist to district leader and offers a firsthand look at how his K–6 district is addressing today’s growing mental health needs.
We explore the rise in self-harm among elementary students, safety risks like elopement, and how Sulphur Springs brings together psychologists, social workers, and behavioral teams to provide cohesive, student-centered care. Paul also opens up about partnering with families through conflict, supporting LGBTQ+ students with empathy and respect, and how technology and community providers help extend mental health access beyond the classroom.
Whether you lead student services, special education, or wellness programs, you’ll find practical insights on collaboration, compassion, and keeping the “whole child” at the heart of every decision.
Key Moments
00:00 From school psychologist to executive district leader
04:02 Tackling elopement and campus safety in elementary schools
06:05 Partnering with families while protecting student autonomy
08:01 Addressing post-pandemic rises in self-harm and student threats
10:38 Building a unified student support system (psych–SW–BCBA)
14:12 Using virtual therapy and community partnerships for continuity
18:30 Staff training and proactive identification of at-risk students
22:27 Supporting LGBTQ+ students and navigating family challenges
29:45 Evolving threat assessments for disability-related behaviors
35:14 The power of staffing, teamwork, and proactive leadership
00:00 From school psychologist to executive district leader
04:02 Tackling elopement and campus safety in elementary schools
06:05 Partnering with families while protecting student autonomy
08:01 Addressing post-pandemic rises in self-harm and student threats
10:38 Building a unified student support system (psych–SW–BCBA)
14:12 Using virtual therapy and community partnerships for continuity
18:30 Staff training and proactive identification of at-risk students
22:27 Supporting LGBTQ+ students and navigating family challenges
29:45 Evolving threat assessments for disability-related behaviors
35:14 The power of staffing, teamwork, and proactive leadership
Connect with Paul Frisina
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-frisina-b6109021/
Website: https://www.sssd.k12.ca.us/
Creators and Guests
Host
Ray Bledsoe
With years of sales and business development leadership experience in diverse industries, I have developed a strong portfolio of skills and achievements that enable me to deliver exceptional results for my company and my clients. My core competencies include sales strategy, sales presentations, relationship building, team leadership, pipeline management, and revenue growth. I leverage my MEDDPICC Masterclass certification and my knowledge of the educational market to craft compelling value propositions and solutions that address the needs and goals of educators and administrators. I also value diversity and inclusion, and I served as the Chairman of the Diversity and Inclusion Council at my previous company, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty.
