ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland is awarding $96 million in grants this year to support mental health services in schools, benefiting 107 programs across the state and reaching 80% of Maryland schools, officials announced Wednesday.
The funding comes from the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports, created under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future to connect schools with behavioral health resources.
At an event outside the State House, Woodlawn High School Principal Jamel Jernigan said the funding is critical for students facing mounting mental health challenges.
“Like so many schools across the state, we’ve seen firsthand how mental health crises continue to impact our students,” Jernigan said. With support from the consortium, her school has expanded access to in-school mental health providers and connected families with community services.
State leaders emphasized the urgency of the issue. Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Baltimore City) said, “If their mental health is not strong, nothing else matters.” House Speaker Adrienne Jones (D-Baltimore County) noted that COVID-19, political unrest, and social media have heightened anxiety and depression among youth.
Mary Gable, assistant state superintendent, said the funded programs cover services including counseling, screenings, addiction treatment, telehealth, and wraparound support.
Though the consortium nearly faced deep cuts during budget negotiations, lawmakers ultimately agreed on $70 million this year and $100 million annually going forward. Consortium Chair David Rudolph said he expects strong support to continue.
“The commitment is there,” Rudolph said.
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