For too long, school policies presumed that providing for the safety and well-being of our kids begins and ends with the physical security of school grounds. Last year, our state passed legislation allocating funds to allow school districts to participate in a Mental Health Intervention Team Pilot Program. The program creates partnerships between districts and community mental health centers to increase students’ access to counselors, social workers and psychologists. Through a unique model of a school liaison, community mental health center clinical staff are embedded in schools to provide initial assessments, treatment and case management year-round. As members of the National Governors Association, we continue to engage in bipartisan dialogue and facilitate national discussions on the opportunities to promote child wellness and school safety.

Source: Fox News December 01, 2019 15:31 UTC