A groundbreaking partnership with Eagle View Community Health Systems is addressing a critical need for mental health services among Monmouth-Roseville students. By embedding behavioral health professionals directly within the schools, this collaboration ensures that students receive timely, compassionate support in an environment they trust.

Haley Nzinga, a recently appointed school social worker, plays a key role in this initiative. “My job is about bridging gaps,” Haley explains. “Whether it’s coordinating academic tutoring, providing weekend meals for food-insecure students, or helping parents navigate cultural or language barriers, my role connects students and families to the resources they need.” Haley’s empathy, honed through 20 years in social services, allows her to meet students where they are and provide support tailored to their unique challenges.

Haley’s impact is magnified by Eagle View’s integrated model of care, which combines medical, dental, and behavioral health services under one roof. Susan Jensen, a clinical supervisor at Eagle View, emphasizes the importance of accessibility. “In rural communities like ours, it’s rare to find comprehensive services in one place,” Susan says. “By being here, we eliminate the need for transportation and create a safe space for students to receive care without leaving school.”

Rae Matsko, a therapist with Eagle View, sees firsthand the difference this makes. Having recently transitioned from a clinic setting, Rae reflects, “When students don’t have to navigate transportation or miss class for appointments, they’re more likely to engage in therapy. It’s incredible to see them adapt and use the tools we provide.”

For students, the benefits extend beyond convenience. Rae notes the resilience of her young clients. “Kids are incredibly adaptive. They might not always recognize their own strength, but watching them take what they’ve learned and apply it is inspiring.”

The partnership also fills a critical void left by the district’s transition from a traditional counselor model to a Dean of Students role. “This collaboration is invaluable,” says Andrea Frieden, the Principal at Central Intermediate School. “Our students face challenges far beyond academics—trauma, food insecurity, identity struggles. Eagle View’s presence gives them a place to turn.”

The impact of trauma on students’ ability to learn is a driving force behind the partnership. “Behavioral health issues can be as disruptive to education as illness,” Susan explains. “If a student’s mental health is suffering, it affects everything—from their focus in class to their relationships with peers.” Eagle View’s ability to prioritize high-risk cases and coordinate services quickly is a game-changer. “We’re not a crisis response team,” Susan clarifies, “but when a student is in immediate need, we can escalate their care efficiently because we control the resources.”

Haley, who coordinates closely with Eagle View staff, views her role as a bridge between two worlds. “I’m learning the academic side while bringing in my experience from social services,” she says. “It’s fascinating to see the parallels between what kids need and what adults need. They’re dealing with the same challenges—trauma, stress—but without the vocabulary or tools to name and manage them.”

The diversity of Monmouth-Roseville’s student body adds another layer of complexity. “Many of our students come from families that speak languages other than English,” Haley explains. “Their stories of how they arrived here are incredible, but they face unique challenges as they adapt to a new culture and educational system.”

For Susan, the partnership’s success comes down to collaboration. “By working directly with the school, we can tailor our therapy to meet the needs of each student, whether that means understanding learning capacities or navigating cultural nuances.”

Andrea highlights the structural advantages Eagle View brings to the table. “It’s like we backed into a fully operational train yard,” she says. “Eagle View’s systems were already in place. We just needed to connect the tracks.”

As the partnership enters its first year, its impact is clear. Students are receiving the behavioral health support they need, families are finding it easier to access services, and the district is better equipped to address the challenges its community faces.

“We’re creating a model that shows what’s possible when schools and health systems work together,” Susan says. “It’s not just about closing gaps—it’s about building bridges.”