Federal grants could help high-need schools hire mental health staff

The Education Secretary would award competitive grants to eligible agencies. Eligible applicants include high-need school districts, education service agencies acting for them, and state education agencies. A high-need district must rank among the state's highest 15% by the number or share of children counted for federal education aid and fall short on at least two listed staffing ratios. Grant awards would depend on available funds and approved applications. Recipients would have to contribute nonfederal funds equal to at least 25% of the project budget. The bill authorizes funding for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. Each grant could last up to five years, with a renewal of up to two years.

Grant recipients could use funds to hire providers and recruit or retain them. Hiring would serve students in elementary and secondary schools served by participating high-need districts. Funds could also support practices to improve school climate and student mental health. Recipients could offer financial incentives such as salary support, moving help, or student loan repayment. They could also provide training, mentoring, or peer support. Grant-funded providers, including those offering telehealth, would have to follow student privacy, disability education, and other applicable laws.

Grant recipients would report each year on provider staffing and related outcomes. These reporting duties would apply to each agency receiving a grant. Reports would be submitted to the Education Secretary and posted on the recipient agency's website in an easy-to-find format. Reports would cover hiring and retention, provider demographics, student-to-provider ratios, and provider departures. Reports would be due annually.