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The U.S. Department of Education announced it will distribute $188 million across 30 states to help school districts support students’ mental health.
Connecticut is expected to receive a share of nearly $1.55 million, all of which will go to EdAdvance, a Litchfield-based organization.
“Following countless conversations with Connecticut parents, educators, and district leaders, as Chair of the subcommittee that funds the Department of Education, I created the School-Based Mental Health Services Grant program to help districts increase the number of qualified, well-trained mental health professionals working in schools,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, who also serves as a ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee.
DeLauro said disruption in schools due to COVID-19, economic anxiety, job losses, and learning challenges have exacerbated pre-existing mental health challenges.
“Our youth need help, and this is a burden that teachers, administrators, and parents cannot alleviate on their own,” she said.
[RELATED: Legislators expected to focus on children’s mental health]
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