Governor Hochul Announces $108 Million Available for Schools to Address Pandemic Learning Loss and Support Mental Health

New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan

OMH has developed more than 1,000 mental health clinics in schools across the state to date, and this investment continues our commitment to New York State’s young people. Providing services directly in schools increases access, promotes coordinated care, and helps reduce stigma, all of which lead to better health outcomes for young people. Governor Hochul has initiated a bold plan that will support and improve the mental health and wellness of all New Yorkers, especially for the children, youth, and families who are facing greater challenges than ever before.

New York State Department of Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa

In partnership with Governor Hochul, these grants will supplement the efforts already underway in our schools to address the pandemic-related trauma and meet the needs of students still struggling with academic, attendance, and mental health issues. Traumatic experiences can affect all aspects of learning. Every child deserves access to a quality education and these funds will enable our educators to deliver critical support to the students most impacted by the pandemic.

New York State Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr.

We have come a long way since the pandemic’s start; however, the long-term effects of COVID continue, especially among our most vulnerable students. This funding will allow schools and districts to address student well-being and strengthen school connectedness strategies to combat the adversities caused by the pandemic. Working with the Governor and our state government partners, we can provide resources for the children, families, and school communities that need them most.

State Senator Shelley Mayer

I am so pleased that with the support of Governor Hochul, my Senate colleagues and I were able to designate $100 million in funding for schools to address student learning loss and mental health issues in last year’s state budget through the RECOVS program. With this funding announcement, we are now beginning to address these challenges head on and provide schools with the resources they desperately need. There is clear empirical evidence that the COVID pandemic imposed substantial learning loss and emotional challenges to New York’s students, as a result of interruptions in learning and social/emotional development. Now, with the opportunity to access these funds, we can turn the corner and address these serious challenges in the coming year. I applaud Governor Kathy Hochul, the New York State Education Department, and my legislative colleagues for making this funding available, so that New York students can recover from the pandemic with the resources they need and deserve.

Assemblymember Michael R. Benedetto

All studies have shown the students of New York State have suffered major learning loss and emotional trauma due to the COVID pandemic. My compliments to Governor Hochul for recognizing these issues and committing the necessary funds to create or expand programs to offset the learning and mental health disruptions that occurred in our schools.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The SDGs addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article are SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 4: Quality Education.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets identified are:

– Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being (under SDG 3)

– Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes (under SDG 4)

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators include:

– Number of mental health clinics developed in schools (related to Target 3.4)

– Access to mental health services in schools (related to Target 3.4)

– Reduction in stigma around mental health (related to Target 3.4)

– Funds allocated to address pandemic-related trauma and support struggling students (related to Target 4.1)

– Improvement in academic performance and attendance rates (related to Target 4.1)

These indicators can be used to track the progress of reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases, promoting mental health and well-being, and ensuring quality education for all.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: governor.ny.gov

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.