Connecting Students with Mental Health Services Act

This legislation establishes a grant program, overseen by the Secretary of Education in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to bolster the mental and behavioral health of students. The program targets elementary and secondary school students, with a particular focus on those residing in rural areas or who currently lack adequate access to mental and behavioral health services. Eligible entities, defined as partnerships between local educational agencies and community health care providers or educational service agencies, can apply for these grants. Grant funds are intended to support resources for student mental health, including purchasing or upgrading equipment for telehealth programs , ensuring sufficient space and personnel for these programs, and hiring or compensating staff to administer them. Priority for grant awards will be given to entities serving high-poverty, rural schools, or those in designated health professional shortage areas. The bill also mandates a joint report to Congress by September 30, 2027, analyzing the program's impact and offering recommendations for its improvement and expansion, with $5,000,000 authorized for appropriations annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2029.