U.S. Department of Education Awards More Than $14.7 Million in Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Grants

Press Release

The U.S. Department of Education awarded more than $14.7 million to 40 school districts in 20 states across the country to establish or expand counseling programs. Grantees will use funds to support counseling programs in elementary and secondary schools. Specifically, the new awards will aid schools in hiring qualified mental-health professionals with the goal of expanding the range, availability, quantity and quality of counseling services. Parents of participating students will have input in the design and implementation of counseling services supported by these grants.

"School-based counseling programs are a wonderful resource for students whose families may not be able to take advantage of outside services or programs," U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said. "These grants will allow school districts to hire more professionals and provide additional services to those students who are struggling with mental-health and emotional issues, and their families."

Grantees also will use funds to help increase the number of available and qualified counselors based on a school's student population. Research shows that having adequate counseling services can help reduce the number of disciplinary referrals in schools, improve student attendance and academic performance and enhance development of social skills. Funds also may be used to support parental involvement, counselor and teacher professional development, and collaboration with community-based organizations that provide mental health and other services to students.

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