The U.S. Department of Education (ED) is considering eliminating essential programs that support mental health services in our nation’s schools. Your voice is needed to protect these critical resources. 

The Crisis: 

• Only 14% of public school districts meet the recommended 250:1 student–counselor ratio.
• Nearly 70% of public schools report increased mental health concerns among students.
• Less than 50% of public schools provide mental health assessments and treatment. 
• Rural schools are 19% less likely to provide mental health services than urban/suburban counterparts.

Programs at Risk: 

• Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grants
• Project AWARE (Advancing Wellness and Resilience in Education)
• School-Based Mental Health Services (SBMH) Grant
• Youth Mental Health First Aid
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Programs

Why This Matters: 

The infrastructure needed to ensure schools can employ mental health professionals at current rates simply does not exist without ED support. State and local governments cannot fill this gap alone. 

The COVID-19 pandemic, social isolation, and increased social media use have created unprecedented mental health challenges for today’s students. Schools have become essential access points for mental health services, especially in underserved communities. 

For additional information, please see the letter NBCC sent to Secretary McMahon on this topic.  Dept of Education Linda McMahon.pdf 

Take Action Today: 

1. Contact your congressional representatives using our voter voice system.
2. Share your professional experience working with students and families in need of mental health support.
3. Spread awareness by sharing this alert with colleagues and on social media.

Your professional voice carries weight. Urging Congress to preserve these vital programs, which support students’ mental well-being and academic success, can ensure continued access to critical mental health services for all students.