In a recent meeting, officials from the Lansing School District discussed significant advancements in mental health support for students, facilitated by a federal grant of $14 million over five years aimed at expanding access to mental health services. The initiative has allowed the district to hire additional staff, including six full-time mental health clinicians and two clinical specialists dedicated to crisis intervention.

The clinical specialists are tasked with responding to urgent situations, conducting risk assessments, and managing intakes and referrals, ensuring that families receive timely support. Additionally, a clinical supervisor has been appointed to oversee treatment strategies and provide guidance to clinicians.

The district has also enhanced its restorative practices by adding three full-time facilitators, who will work across more schools to promote conflict resolution and emotional well-being. Professional development opportunities have been expanded for all staff, focusing on various mental health topics to improve overall awareness and support within the school environment.

Collaboration with Michigan State University has increased, with the district hosting several student interns from the Social Work Department. These interns are involved in both direct support roles and administrative tasks, contributing to the district's mental health initiatives.

The meeting highlighted the importance of community partnerships, particularly with child and family charities, to provide additional social-emotional learning programs for younger students. A new initiative, \"Handle with Care,\" aims to improve communication between local police and schools regarding students who may have experienced trauma, ensuring they receive appropriate support.

Despite these advancements, concerns were raised about the availability of mental health care in the community, particularly for families relying on Medicaid. Many private practitioners do not accept Medicaid, leading to a backlog in services. School officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining care for high-risk students and actively networking with community resources to ensure families receive the necessary support.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to enhancing mental health services, addressing both immediate needs and long-term strategies to foster a supportive educational environment.