North Carolina is set to receive a $2.5 million grant to expand school-based health services for students. The grant, awarded by the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services, aims to address the critical need for mental health resources in schools. Robert Alvis, a Social Studies teacher in Alamance County, emphasized the importance of such resources, stating that teachers are currently not equipped to handle issues such as thoughts of suicide, depression, and anxiety among students. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, schools in the state had less than 20% of the recommended number of psychologists and social workers for the student population in 2022. The grant will be allocated to schools and education agencies throughout the state over the next three years, providing much-needed support for students’ mental well-being. Alvis believes that grants like this will relieve some of the pressure on school staff and increase access to critical mental health services for students. This initiative highlights the state government’s recognition of the mental health needs of public school students and their commitment to addressing these issues. The grant will play a crucial role in improving the overall well-being of students and ensuring they have the support they need to thrive in the educational environment.
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Students require mental health resources
