ALLENTOWN, Pa. – Ahead of the 2026–2027 school year, Allentown School District (ASD) is announcing a new partnership with Cartwheel, a virtual mental health provider, to expand access to therapy, parent guidance, and family support across all 26 district schools.

According to a news release from ASD, the partnership is designed to close the gaps like waitlists, transportation barriers, and cost that can make it hard for students and families to get support quickly.

The district says the partnership connects to several priorities in Allentown’s “Lighting the Way 2030” strategic plan including, cultivating safe, nurturing learning communities; partnering with families for physical, social, and mental wellness; and reducing chronic absenteeism.

“In alignment with our Strategic Plan: Lighting the Way, A Blueprint to Innovation & Excellence 2030, we recognize that when we focus on supporting the whole child, they are more likely to excel socially, emotionally, and academically,” said Dr. Carol D. Birks, Superintendent of Allentown School District. “This strategic partnership with Cartwheel allows us to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every student feels safe, valued, empowered, and loved.’

Officials say through the partnership, students can connect with a licensed clinician for support with a wide range of needs. Care is available at no cost to families with Medicaid or without insurance, while families with private insurance can use their in-network benefits. The release says sessions are available virtually before, during, and after school hours and on weekends, with care offered in multiple languages, including English and Spanish. Through individual therapy, students can build skills and strategies to navigate school, at home, and relationships. The partnership also provides access to parent guidance and family therapy, giving caregivers their own direct line to support.

The school district says care is tailored to each student and family’s needs, with focused programs offering additional support around several common challenges:

School Avoidance: for students who are struggling to get to school regularly, and the families working to support them in getting there

Screens & Social Media: for students and families navigating the pull of screens, social media, and digital stress

Big Behaviors & Big Feelings: for students experiencing intense emotions or behaviors that are affecting daily life at school, at home, or both

“Every student experiences mental health challenges differently, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to supporting them,” said Dr. Juliana Chen, Chief Medical Officer at Cartwheel. “Our goal is to meet students and families where they are, with practical support that helps them build skills, strengthen relationships, and feel more confident navigating challenges at school and at home.”

How It Works

There are a few ways the Allentown School District community can connect with Cartwheel, according to the release:

For Families: Parents and caregivers can complete a simple interest form to request support for their student or their family.

For School Staff: Staff can refer a student directly for care, or reach out to a designated student support staff member to make the referral.