School-Based Mental Health Services Transition for 2026–27 

The Issaquah School District (ISD) will transition its school-based mental health services following a decision by Swedish Medical Center to discontinue its school-based mental health program, effective July 31, 2026.

Fourteen years ago, ISD and Swedish began exploring ways to better support students and families and, in 2014, entered a formal agreement to provide on-site mental health counseling services, helping ensure student well-being and access to care across all schools.

Recognizing a Valued Partnership

While Swedish’s decision reflects a shift in its organizational priorities and service portfolio, ISD expresses deep appreciation for the impact of this long-standing partnership. Superintendent Heather Tow-Yick thanked Swedish for its service and commitment to students and the community.

“Swedish stepped up in a meaningful way to support our students and schools, and we are deeply grateful for their partnership,” Tow-Yick said. “Together, we created a model of care that has made a real difference for students and families. We also recognize this work has been outside of Swedish’s core portfolio of services, and we appreciate their partnership and collaboration throughout this time.”

ISD and Swedish will continue to work together through the transition to support staff and ensure students currently receiving services experience a thoughtful and coordinated handoff through the transition into the 2026–27 school year.

 

A Lasting Impact on Students and Schools

Since the partnership began, Swedish clinicians have worked directly in ISD schools, helping students access mental health support in a familiar and trusted environment. This model reduced barriers to care and created a continuum of support for students experiencing a wide range of needs, from early intervention to more complex challenges.

The partnership has been unique. Swedish, a member of Providence, does not provide this type of embedded school-based service in other districts across its seven-state system. Together, ISD and Swedish built a one-of-a-kind approach focused on supporting the whole child.

Over the years, Swedish counselors have supported thousands of students and partnered closely with families, educators and school teams. Many clinicians also have deep ties to the ISD community, including parents and caregivers. While not district employees, Swedish clinicians have been valued members of our school communities, providing direct support to students and working closely with staff and families. Many staff, students and families have built strong, trusted relationships with Swedish counselors, and we recognize this transition may be challenging for some families and students. We are deeply grateful for their service and the meaningful impact they have had across our community.

 

Looking Ahead: Expanding Services with Youth Eastside Services

Beginning in the 2026–27 school year, ISD will expand its partnership with Youth Eastside Services (Y.E.S.), a long-standing community partner already providing expertise in behavioral health, mental health and substance use support in district schools. This transition is designed to ensure continuity of care and maintain strong access to school-based mental health services for students and families. ISD will maintain the same number of mental health counselors previously provided through Swedish.

“Our focus remains on ensuring students have access to high-quality mental health support without interruption,” Tow-Yick said. “We look forward to a smooth expansion of work with Youth Eastside Services and continuing to strengthen a system of care that supports both students and staff.”

 

Continuity of Care for Students

ISD is committed to ensuring a smooth transition with no disruption to services for students.

Through this transition:

• Students currently receiving services will be supported through a coordinated plan
• ISD will work closely with partners to maintain consistency and continuity
• Staff will receive support to ensure alignment across services

Youth Eastside Services counselors bring expertise in both mental health and substance use support and will continue working alongside school teams to meet student needs. We expect some initial adjustment challenges, particularly as families and staff adapt to this change, but Y.E.S. is well-prepared to provide consistent, high-quality support.
 

Continuing a Commitment to Student Well-Being

The Issaquah School District remains committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of every student.

ISD extends its sincere gratitude to Swedish for more than a decade of partnership, service and dedication to students, families and the community, and looks ahead to continuing this important work with strong community partners.