The Florida Legislature continues to provide funding for support services through the Mental Health Assistance Allocation to address the critical need for prevention, early intervention, and direct intervention for student mental health. The designated funding through SB 7030 is to be used exclusively for the development of a safe and healthy environment for students to learn, and strengthen programs designed to address mental health assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and treatment and recovery services.  Part of the statute language requires that the School Board approve a plan of services using the FDOE provided matrix for development, that plan is submitted here for consideration.

The Mental Health Assistance Allocation has enabled CCDS to improve direct services to students through staffing and programming, as well as complete a needs assessment to better inform level of student's mental health competencies.

Each year, Clay County has successfully grown our capacity to serve our students and their families through initiatives that are funded by this allocation, and build communities of resilient learners in our schools.  This is evident in the number of students served, and in the increase in overall programs provided. 

We expect to see a reduction in behavioral and emotional issues detracting our students from academic success, as well as an increase in life skills building and overall resiliency in our students.

Goal 4: Strengthen the overall physical and emotional environment to foster an environment of safety and belonging for students, staff, and all stakeholders.

Recommend School Board approval of plan.