Monday, February 18, 2019
The application process for the School-Based Mental Health Services Program (SMHS), a competitive mental health program authorized under Wis. Stat. §115.367 administered by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI), is now open.
The DPI will award grants to school districts and operators of independent charter schools to be used for the purpose of providing mental health services to pupils in collaboration with community health agencies. Strategies may include co-locating community mental health clinics in schools and providing screening and intervention services.
School boards and independent charter schools may apply for a grant individually or as a consortium of school boards, charter schools, or both. Cooperative Educational Service Agencies (CESAs) can be considered a consortium of school boards. Per state statute, private schools are not eligible to apply.
Eligibility and application requirements for the grant include:
- Eligible Applicants: School Boards, Operators of Charter Schools, Consortium.
- Applicants can apply for either a Program Development Grant or a Program Expansion Grant.
- Applicants may apply for a grant between $10,000-$75,000 per year to be funded for two years.
- Applicants must have a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) from at least one community provider who is committed to working with the applicant on this grant.
Further information and support can be found in the SMHS Grant Program Guidance Document on the DPI School-Based Mental Health Services Grant Program web page.
The DPI will host grant writing webinars throughout the month of February. Applications are due May 1. Districts will be notified about funding status in June.