This paper contains a literature review on mental health programs, prevention measures, and school systems. The mental health of school children is examined, the concept of prevention is reviewed, and the role of the school system in prevention is discussed. Literature dealing with school-based efforts in concert with the family and the community is also reviewed. A section on the emerging role of the school mental health worker includes a description of potential programs that might be facilitated by a mental health worker in an elementary school. Programs considered include extensive experiential programs, intensive experiential programs, extensive environmental programs, and intensive environmental programs. Experiential and environmental programs are discussed further in the Evaluation and Research section. Conclusions are drawn from the sources which emphasize the importance of the school in preventative mental health programs and encourage the expansion of roles by mental health workers. A bibliography of references cited in this document is also included. (NRB)