The Lee County School District approved a significant investment in student mental health, following a state initiative to enhance well-being in schools.
At the first school board meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, the district accepted more than $6.3 million from the state of Florida, along with forming multiple partnerships with local and state organizations. The district plans to use the funds to hire mental health professionals, train teachers, and provide workshops aimed at improving student mental health.
Since the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Florida has prioritized funding for mental health support in schools. This year, the allocated funds will focus on enhancing mental health care, raising awareness of student well-being, and providing teacher training.
For parents like Stephani Mares, this funding is crucial.
“I have a daughter with ADHD, so she’s diagnosed with mental health disability,” said Mares. “At the end it helps a child have access to resources.”
Lori Brooks, director of school counseling and mental health services for the Lee County School District, emphasized the importance of teacher training.
“Youth Mental Health First Aid training really helps to train staff in identifying signs and symptoms of typical behavior, and then what might be atypical, how to talk to students and also how to respond when a student approaches them about some of these difficult topics,” said Brooks.
The funding is allocated annually by the state, with Lee County receiving the same amount as last year.
This money also supports partnerships with local organizations such as Valerie’s House and SalusCare.