Quick recap

Participants from various regions across Texas shared updates, challenges, and successes related to prevention services. Common challenges included difficulties in recruiting and retaining prevention specialists, issues with school access due to SB12, and the requirement for CPS certification leading to turnover. Strategies shared to address these included revising job descriptions using AI, offering flexible work arrangements, and providing incentives like certification bonuses. The group discussed the need for a new compensation analysis, similar to the previous Whirling report, to assess salary ranges in the field. They also talked about the upcoming HHSC RFP and the need to provide feedback on new measures, with a suggestion to create their own survey to ensure relevant input. Updates were given on successful program implementations, such as increased school engagement and the use of alternative sites like charter schools and community centers. The conversation ended with plans to explore the compensation survey…

Quick recap

The meeting focused on updates and challenges in prevention services, contract management changes, and feedback for HHSC. Participants discussed the unexpected departure of contract manager Allie and shared concerns about ongoing turnover. Noelle asked for updates on BeWell contract changes and SB12 implementation, with most reporting smoother integration in schools this year. The group had a lengthy discussion about the need for more focus and support for prevention work, highlighting issues with rigid reporting requirements, outdated technology, and limited funding compared to treatment services. They shared frustrations about contract negotiations, measures set by HHSC, and the lack of flexibility in prevention programming. Suggestions included allowing providers to propose their own service numbers based on community needs and more transparency in funding allocations by region. Jennifer announced her retirement and introduced John Haynes as her successor. The meeting closed with well-wishes for Jennifer and confirmation of communication regarding contract…

Quick recap

The meeting focused on recapping the recent planning session with HHSC and discussing how prevention providers could better influence state contracts and priorities. Participants shared feedback on administrative and financial challenges, including burdensome reporting requirements and the need for more tailored performance measures, especially for rural areas. They discussed issues with the RFP process, such as lack of notification for application receipt, limited access to scores, and the need for a more user-friendly submission system. The group raised concerns about curriculum selection, the shrinking pool of approved curricula, and the impact of SB 12 on program delivery. There was also extensive discussion about tobacco compliance checks, the strain they placed on prevention staff, and suggestions for alternative approaches. Members highlighted the importance of provider input in planning future funding cycles and the need for more negotiation and flexibility in contracts. Overall, the meeting emphasized the desire for a…

Quick recap

This meeting was a regional provider update session where Anna facilitated discussions about recent changes and updates from various organizations across Texas. The main topics covered included contract amendments for YPCCP programs, with multiple providers reporting receiving revised contracts that changed deliverable dates from the 15th to the 30th and removed some multiple deliverables. Providers discussed the removal of travel expenses from indirect and equipment categories, though there was some confusion about whether this change would be effective immediately or starting in fiscal year 2027. Regional updates were shared across different areas, with providers reporting on back-to-school preparations, summer programs, and MOU development. The group also discussed challenges with information dissemination presentations, including the need for team review processes and ensuring appropriate imagery. Anna reminded attendees about an ongoing policy strategy survey that would inform legislative committee meetings and the organization's 3-5 year framework.

Next steps

Anna

• Add…

Quick recap

This meeting was a prevention providers' discussion group where participants shared updates and experiences following the recent APPM (Annual Prevention Providers Meeting). The group discussed positive changes from the directors' meeting at APPM, including moving deliverable dates from the 15th to the 30th and potential changes to travel money allocation. Participants from various regions shared their current activities and initiatives, including World Cup-related naloxone distribution efforts, summer prevention programs, and pilot projects in schools. The conversation then shifted to legislative challenges, particularly regarding Senate Bill 12 and its impact on prevention services in schools, with Noelle providing updates on upcoming meetings with TEA and HHSC to address these concerns. The conversation ended with a discussion about the importance of ongoing communication through ASAP's online groups to help advocate for prevention services at the legislative level.

Next steps

Abigail

• Upload the TEA strategic plan document (especially pages 23-24 about…

Quick recap

This meeting focused on discussing challenges and opportunities in substance use prevention services across Texas. The group addressed several key issues, including school districts discontinuing Life Skills programs mid-curriculum, concerns about SB12 requirements creating barriers to referrals, and the dramatic increase in vaping among youth. Participants shared that vaping has become the most significant substance issue, particularly among younger age groups, with flavored products and easy online access contributing to the problem. The discussion also covered challenges with tobacco compliance checks, which were transferred to prevention providers but lack adequate funding for travel expenses and follow-ups. Additionally, the group explored gaps in reaching populations before they enter treatment, with participants noting that limited funding and staff constraints prevent serving entire school districts effectively, and suggesting that transition periods between grades 6, 8, 9, and 12 represent critical points for intervention.

Next steps

• Carrie: Collect feedback from group members…

Quick recap

This meeting focused on challenges and updates regarding Senate Bill 12's impact on youth prevention services across Texas. The group discussed how SB12 has significantly hindered curriculum delivery in schools, with organizations reporting only about 20% of their expected numbers due to restrictions on school access. Participants shared alternative approaches including summer camps, daycares, and working with charter schools, while Kail from SeneCore reported discouraging feedback from HHSC program specialists regarding performance measures. The team discussed strategies for advocacy, including reaching out to local government representatives and legislators, with Kail mentioning their recent meeting with Dr. Trina Ida, the Deputy Commissioner of behavioral health, who was unaware of SB12's impacts. The group also addressed challenges with YPU adult education measures, particularly regarding facilitator requirements and minimum attendance standards that make it difficult to meet reporting requirements.

Next steps

• Andrea: Comment on or provide details/examples to the sunset review…

Quick recap

The meeting focused on discussing challenges and updates related to prevention programs, particularly in the context of Senate Bill 12 and curriculum requirements. Participants shared experiences with tobacco compliance checks, program audits, and the inefficiencies of the CMBHS system. They highlighted issues with social media engagement, referral processes, and the effectiveness of current curricula. Kendra and others expressed concerns about the lack of flexibility in meeting numerical targets and the challenges of implementing new curricula that don't align with school requirements. The group also discussed the impact of SB12 on their ability to conduct surveys and collect data. Noelle acknowledged these issues and promised to bring up the feedback with HHSC to improve future programming and curriculum selection.

Next steps

• John's program director: Reach out to June or PRC contact to request reassignment or addition of tobacco compliance check locations within service area, ensuring no duplication in overlapping…

Quick recap

The team discussed regional contract updates and budget adjustments, with several regions reporting delays in receiving contracts and questions raised about de minimis changes and retroactive billing processes. Updates were shared from various regions regarding ongoing work, community services, and summer activities, while Lisa provided feedback on her experience attending the HHSC Virtual Institute which covered important topics like childhood trauma and substance use trends. The conversation ended with discussions about upcoming meetings, reports, and a social event, along with reminders about tracking pending contracts.

Next steps

• Regions still waiting on contracts to reach out to Noel 2 weeks before HHS meeting

• Jennifer to follow up with Lisa regarding the BPA process and timeline

• Terah to reach out to PRC regarding tobacco compliance checks meeting coordination

Quick recap

The team discussed concerns about draft rule SV12 and its potential impact on prevention programs, particularly regarding school district practices and consent forms. They addressed challenges with the new Texas legislation similar to Florida's "Don't Say Gay" bill, which has led to service pauses and consent form requirements across various school districts. The conversation ended with discussions about system issues in CMBHS, including late report submissions and technical problems that need to be addressed with HHS.

Next steps

• Lisa and Noelle to meet with Dwayne on Monday to discuss SB 12 and its implications for prevention programs.

• Noelle to send the TEA draft rules regarding SB 12 to ASAP members after the call.

• Noelle to organize a follow-up meeting with all prevention providers after the Monday meeting with Dwayne to discuss SB 12 impacts.

Quick recap

The monthly huddle focused on updates and challenges in alcohol and drug prevention services, including ongoing hiring efforts and the impact of a new state law affecting consent for behavioral health services in schools. The team discussed various operational issues such as consent form requirements, reporting processes, and tracking methods for community-based activities, while also addressing concerns about Senate Bill 12's effects on educational presentations and screenings. Participants shared updates on system changes and upcoming modifications to the ASAP platform, emphasizing the need for clear communication and continued partnership building despite the challenges posed by the new legislation.

Next steps

• Noelle to share information about phasing out the first 15 hours of prevention training at next week's meeting.

• Providers to bring up specific system challenges during the monthly prevention meetings with HHSC.

• Noelle to drop Casey's email in the chat for providers experiencing IT issues with the software…

Quick recap

The meeting began with Noelle addressing attendance and health issues while discussing ongoing billing and software challenges with HHSC, including system errors and documentation requirements for quarterly reports. The team explored various operational concerns including potential rate increases from CMBHS, changes to billing procedures, and the implementation of Senate Bill 12's consent requirements, with participants sharing different approaches to consent collection and form management. Noelle concluded by discussing platform functionality improvements and website access, emphasizing the importance of registration for better communication and resource sharing among members.

Next steps

• Leandra : Send presentation packet to Andrea to help with creating objectives for consent forms

• All participants: Touch base with business/billing staff about changes from yesterday's HHSC meeting regarding FSRs and general ledger requirements

• All participants: Register for member account on ASAPTexas.org website to access member portal

Quick recap

The meeting began with introductions and website login instructions for ASAP's programming team, followed by discussions about Senate Bill 12 compliance and its impact on youth prevention services across school districts. Participants shared challenges around meeting program measures, staffing issues, and the effectiveness of community partnerships, while exploring strategies to address compensation and funding concerns. The group reviewed resources and guidance materials for SB12 implementation, including a social worker guidebook, and confirmed the next meeting would take place the following month.

Next steps

• Lakeysha: Share the SB12 guidebook for social workers and FAQ with the group (already sent during meeting, but Noelle to distribute via email to the group as well).

• Noelle: Follow up with HHSC regarding expectations for meeting program numbers given SB12 implementation challenges and potential for reduced numbers or grace period; report back to the group.

• Noelle: Consult with HHSC about creative ways to meet…

Quick recap

The team discussed regional staffing updates and challenges, including open positions and recruitment strategies across various regions. Implementation of SB12 was a major focus, with discussions centered on consent forms, opt-out processes, and their impact on participation rates in drug and alcohol education programs. The conversation ended with updates on organizational changes, including new website access and personnel additions to support ongoing operations.

Next steps

• Lakeysha: Complete monthly reports and implementation plan due on the 15th.

• Leandra (FBRC): Revise consent forms to remove 16 and older language and ensure compliance with SB12 and district requirements; distribute updated forms to school counselors for upcoming presentations/activities.

• Tiffany: Follow up with the state regarding approval of Classroom Connection for YPI/CBSG and report back to the group.