Indy Standard

U.S. Senators Todd Young, Jeanne Shaheen, and Kevin Cramer have reintroduced the Mental Health Excellence in Schools Act to tackle the shortage of mental health providers in educational institutions. The legislation aims to enhance the pipeline of graduate students trained as school psychologists, counselors, and social workers.

"Access to mental health resources improves the safety, well-being, and academic success of Hoosier students," stated Senator Young. "Our bill will both support the school-based mental health workforce and address the critical need for these professionals."

Senator Shaheen emphasized the importance of having enough mental health professionals in schools amid a nationwide youth mental health crisis. "Folks in New Hampshire and across the country know we’re facing a nationwide youth mental health crisis – and having a sufficient number of mental health professionals in schools, meeting kids where they are, improves the well-being, academic performance and life outcomes of all students," she said.

Senator Cramer highlighted that there are not enough school-based mental health professionals across various fields. "Like so many fields across the state, there simply aren’t enough school-based mental health professionals. Ensuring our kids’ well-being and academic success should be our first priority," he remarked.

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) recommends one school psychologist per 500 students; however, the national average is about one per 1,200 students with variations among states. The act seeks to improve recruitment and retention of these services in schools.

Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Jared Golden introduced similar legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Dr. Peter Faustino from NASP expressed support for this initiative: "The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) is proud to support the reintroduction of the Mental Health in Schools Excellence Program Act... This legislation is a needed step toward addressing critical workforce shortages."

Dr. Julia Szarko from NASP's Professional Policy Committee also praised this legislative effort: "As a practicing school psychologist... I’m so grateful to Representatives Fitzpatrick and Golden and Senators Cramer, Shaheen, and Young for their leadership... By expanding access to these services, we can help ensure that all students are empowered to thrive."