NC H725

Department of Public Instruction shall study and make recommendations on funding structures for mental health support services in public schools.

Study must review different funding methods for mental health personnel including nurses, psychologists, school counselors, social workers, and special education teachers, as well as associated salaries, operational costs, and contracts.

Study shall examine whether salaried positions or service contracts are more cost-effective and whether funding should be tied to need levels at individual schools or school districts.

Study may evaluate tying mental health funding to measurement tools such as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) scores or other relevant metrics.

Department must report findings and legislative recommendations to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by December 15, 2018.