K-12 Schools Now Stepping Up As Primary Providers of Mental Health Services for Adolescents

A report released by the School Superintendents Association (AASA) National Conference on Education outlines the difficulties school districts face in handling their emerging role as the nation’s primary provider of adolescent mental health services. “Whether they’re ready or not, schools are being forced to serve as the frontline providers of mental health services for America’s youth,” said EAB Managing Director Pete Talbot. “There’s an argument to be made that schools should serve this role since virtually all kids pass through their doors. However, at many schools, administrators and staff are not adequately trained or resourced to fulfill that mission.”