Implementing Mental Health Professionals in Schools - Relating to mental health; requiring one mental health

professional for every 250 students in Minnesota public schools.

 

 

PURPOSE

This bill is to provide students in Minnesota schools better access to mental health support.

 

JUSTIFICATION

It is known that mental health issues have a toll especially on students. According to the CDC, about 1 in 5 kids have a

mental health disorder, but do not get any help. Some schools in Minnesota have over 500 students and have only one

counselor; that's just not enough. The American School Counselor Association calls for a ratio of 1 counselor for every

250 students, but Minnesota's current average is 1 for every 544 students. That's more than double what's recommended.

If they are able to speak with someone when they are stressed or anxious, it can help prevent much larger problems, such

as depression or even suicide. Additional presence of mental health professionals at schools will send a clear message

to students to get help they need when they need it. This bill is not only about mental health; it's about saving lives

and helping students succeed in school.

 

 

DEFINITIONS

-Mental health - Relating to the emotional and psychological well-being of an individual

-Psycology - The study of the human mind

-Depression - A serious mental health disorder relating to sadness and loss of interest, relating to daily health

 

 

FUNDING

The funding for this act would be derived from the Minnesota Department of Education. Schools can apply for state grants

or communicate with local groups to aid in funding. If the state doesn't have enough funds, the state adds more funds

for student safety and mental health. Schools will need to budget and plan in advance for hiring additional counselors

and other mental health positions.

 

PENALTIES AND ENFORCEMENT

Schools that cannot meet the 1:250 ratio by a certain deadline, will have to submit a plan to the state explaining how

they will fix it. If they do not follow through, they could lose a percentage of state funding, until the need is met,

or be required to partner with outside mental health agencies to meet the requirement.

 

EFFECTIVE DATE

The bill would take effect on July 1, 2026. That means schools would get one year to hire mental health professionals to

meet the requirement. Before that date, schools should start planning and budgeting in preparation. The Minnesota

Department of Education will provide guidelines and support in this transition period.