Sunday, September 30, 2012

More Than $21 Million Awarded to School Districts to Expand Counseling Programs


More Than $21 Million Awarded to School Districts to Expand Counseling Programs


Contact:  
 Press Office, (202) 401-1576, press@ed.gov 


The U.S. Department of Education today announced the award of more than $21.2 million to 60 recipients in 24 states across the country to establish or expand counseling programs. Grantees will use funds to support counseling programs in target elementary or secondary schools.
The new awards will specifically 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 counselors are a vital resource for students and educators, and play a key role in creating safe and productive learning environments," said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. "These funds will help expand those services to help more students lead healthy, happy and successful lives."