YORK, Pa. — Pennsylvania schools are getting a boost in their effort to improve mental health among students and staff.
Governor Josh Shapiro announced how $47 million in grants is being distributed as part of the $100 million that was approved for mental health initiatives in last year's state budget. FOX43 talked to a local guidance counselor to find out how that money could really help schools in our area.
Success for students on the court often includes a sound mind, body and soul off the court. There's only one problem: mental health issues continue to rise, unlike the number of school counselors.
"Currently in the state of PA, the average school, there's a 1 to 353 ratio of school counselors—and the American School Counselor Association recommends a 1 to 250 ratio," said Matthew Shervington.
The Susquehannock High School guidance counselor says there are simply not enough of them to address the growing need of students' mental health.
"Pennsylvania is currently the only state without mandated school counseling services out of all 50," Shervington said.
He's hopeful legislation in the State General Assembly could help change that. For now, though—some good news from the state budget: $47 million dollars in competitive school safety and security grants to improve safety, security and mental health supports for students and staff at schools across the state.
Susquehannock is in the Southern York County School District, which is set to receive nearly $177,000. Shervington says he knows what he personally would do with the money.
"With funding for me, it would definitely be people over programs," he said.
Programs, while important, aren't always as impactful.
"Programs are great, but if you find people to talk about their high school counselor or their high school social workers that may work with them, you'll find they primarily remember them for the good reasons and the impact they've made," Shervington said.
Shervington says many school districts are often forced to operate with only one social worker. Susquehannock was one of them until just a few years ago when outside funding allowed them to hire three more.
As for the new funding to improve mental health and safety in schools, the grants are being awarded to districts based on size and need.
To give you an idea of who is getting what, here are amounts some central Pennsylvania schools have received:
- The Harrisburg City School District: $693,983
- Bermudian Springs in Adams County: $158,540
- York City: $243,788
- Lancaster School District: $269,6550
- Carlisle Area School District in Cumberland County: $208,933
Regardless of the amount, mental health experts say the funding is at least a step in the right direction, and many hope it will help bring about more positive memories.