Ep 14: Policy Shifts in School Mental Health with Matthew Stone

In this episode, Matthew Stone, assistant managing editor at Education Week, joins the Mental Health Evolution Podcast to discuss recent shifts in school mental health policy. Matthew shares insights on federal grant changes, the focus on school psychologists, and how districts are adapting to meet the growing mental health needs of students. He explains the evolution of funding programs, challenges schools face when funding priorities shift, and practical strategies districts are using to provide more effective mental health support. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how policy impacts schools, educators, and students alike. Timestamped Highlights:

• 00:03 – Introduction to Matthew Stone and overview of episode
• 06:10 – Discussion on the increase in student mental health needs post-COVID
• 11:03 – Overview of federal grant shifts and funding uncertainty
• 14:07 – Impact of grant terminations on hiring and staffing
• 19:01 – Focus on school psychologists and narrowing of grants
• 25:38 – Implications for districts trying to fulfill local needs

Key Topics Discussed:

• COVID's impact on student mental health
• Federal grant programs for school mental health
• Policy changes and administrative priorities
• Workforce challenges: counselors, social workers, and psychologists
• Local district strategies for sustaining services

Main Takeaways:

• Student mental health needs have increased, exacerbated by COVID
• Policy changes and grant terminations create uncertainty for districts
• Narrowing grants to school psychologists may limit local flexibility
• States and districts are developing innovative strategies to meet needs
• Sustaining mental health services requires planning beyond federal funding

Notable Quotes:

• "I think the focus on school psychologists has stumped a lot of people in the mental health world."
• "Schools are navigating unprecedented changes while trying to provide consistent support to students."

Resources Mentioned:

• KFF: The Landscape of School-Based Mental Health Services
• US House Press Release: Fitzpatrick Leads Bipartisan Coalition
• Education Week: Trump Admin Relaunches School Mental Health Grants

Connect with Matthew Stone: Website: Matthew Stone – Education Week Connect with The Mental Health Evolution: Website: Mental Health Evolution Podcast Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution Facebook: The Mental Health Evolution Music by Zach Harrison