Bend the Trend (BTT), a proactive initiative dedicated to providing early intervention and support for students exhibiting social-emotional and mental health needs proudly announces its expansion to Chandler Elementary. This expansion marks a significant step forward in our commitment to fostering the well-being and success of students within our community.
Launched in January 2023 at Torres Elementary, Bend the Trend has demonstrated remarkable success in identifying and addressing the social-emotional and mental health needs of students. Through personalized interventions, targeted support, and a collaborative approach involving educators, counselors, and families, Bend the Trend has effectively empowered students to overcome challenges and thrive in their academic and personal lives.
At Torres Elementary, Bend the Trend has made a tangible difference by:
Providing individualized care plans tailored to each student's unique needs.
Offering counseling and therapeutic interventions to address social-emotional and mental health challenges.
Implementing proactive strategies to enhance the learning environment.
Collaborating closely with parents and families to ensure continuity of support outside the school environment.
By implementing Bend the Trend, Torres saw a reduction in the number of student incidents that resulted in a discipline referral by 70%.
Building upon this success, Bend the Trend is thrilled to extend its reach to Chandler Elementary, furthering our mission to promote whole child development and the success of every student. This expansion represents a testament to the dedication and commitment of our team to make a positive impact on the lives of students and families.
Bend the Trend is proud to partner with Gulf Bend Center, a leading provider of mental health services in our community, to enhance the quality of life for students in VISD schools.
“By partnering with our parents and building a continuum of support around the student, our goal is to empower students with healthy coping mechanisms that will lead to students finding their genius,” said Cindy Salinas, VISD Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Coordinator.
Parents of Chandler Elementary students interested in completing a referral for their child can contact the campus Social Emotional Behavioral Specialist (SEBS) Casey Henneke via email at casey.henneke@visd.net or the counselor at Katie Gohlke via email at katie.gohlke@visd.net after March 4, 2024.
For more information about Bend the Trend from the original press release, visit