Mental Health Support for Educators and School Staff: New Programs and Grants.
This Act aims to improve the mental health and resilience of educators and school staff across the U.S. It establishes national education initiatives to encourage school personnel to seek mental health and substance use support while actively addressing associated stigma. Furthermore, it authorizes grants for schools and institutions to create or enhance psychological support programs, including mental healthcare and telehealth services, directly contributing to better working conditions and stability within the educational workforce.
Key points
National Education Campaign: A nationwide initiative will be established to encourage school staff to use mental health and substance use disorder services and combat associated stigma.
Grants for Support Programs: $35 million annually (2024-2026) is authorized for grants to schools and institutions to create programs improving mental health, including peer support and providing mental healthcare (including via telehealth).
Priority for High-Need Schools: Grants will prioritize schools in areas with a high percentage of facilities receiving financial assistance for low-income students.
Review and Report: A review will be conducted on mental health issues among the education workforce, barriers to care, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with results reported to Congress.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_2530
Sponsor: Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA]
Process start date: 2023-07-26