Inside USBE > Departments and Programs > Prevention and Student Services
Prevention and Student Services staff support Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in implementing a student-focused, evidence-informed, data-driven approach for all prevention work, to promote the knowledge and skills necessary for college and career success and meaningful engagement with their community.
Our mission is to work systemically to provide equitable supports that increases positive childhood experiences and reduces risk factors. Through a protective factors approach, Prevention and Student Services Programs provide resources and supports to reduce the risks of absenteeism, bullying, child abuse, gangs, human trafficking, school dropout, substance use, and suicide. In collaboration with community partners and other stakeholders, these supports are built on a foundation of family engagement, trauma-informed care, and restorative practices. By promoting wellness for the whole child, this team contributes to the Utah State Board of Education's vision of preparing each child to be college, career, and life ready upon graduation.
The Protective Factor Framework is a research-based and evidence-informed approach to prevention work that has demonstrated the ability to increase the well-being of both children and families by reducing the risk of unhealthy behaviors. When implemented, research has shown that the protective factor framework can increase the probability of positive outcomes even in the presence of risk and adversity. When used in education, it helps education staff to identify the five characteristics or attributes we need to focus on most for students to reduce or eliminate risk factors and actively enhance their well-being.
Introduction to the Protective Factor Framework