SAN JOSE, CA – The Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) was announced as an awardee of $976,050 from the U. S. Department of Education to increase mental health and wellness services and professionals in learning environments. The goal is to train, certify and place mental health providers in schools with high needs. 

The Biden-Harris Administration announced continued support for school-based mental health services and increasing the pipeline of mental health professionals in schools across the nation through nearly $100 million to schools, districts, and educational institutions. The awards are funded by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was signed into law last June. Through the awards, more than 2,000 school-based mental health professionals are projected to be hired in California. 

“Investing in student mental health and well-being is impactful in their academic journey,” said County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Mary Ann Dewan. “When youth know they have safe spaces and trusted adults to support them, they are successful learners.” 

The SCCOE is committed to ensuring students have access to school-based mental health providers who share similar experiences, reflect identities Santa Clara County students hold and represent their communities. 

“We are excited to have been selected to receive funding from the U.S. Department of Education to launch the SCCOE School Behavioral Health Provider Educator Preparation Program,” said Dr. Adora Fisher, Director of Educator Preparation Programs. 

Educator Preparation Programs (EPP)​ at SCCOE offers credentialing programs for working professionals Beginning in the fall, SCCOE will support the first cohort of school-based mental health professionals.