Bill > S369

This bill establishes the Whole Child Grant Program, which aims to support the social, emotional, and physical well-being of students and educators in public school districts. The program creates a dedicated fund administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, which can receive appropriations, gifts, and other funding sources. School districts can use the grants for various purposes, including hiring school nurses, counselors, social workers, and psychologists; implementing mental health frameworks; developing policies to support student and educator well-being; and creating professional development opportunities. The grant amount is calculated on a per-pupil basis, with higher funding for districts with more low-income students (ranging from $50 to $150 per pupil). To receive funding, districts must submit a plan detailing how they will use the grant money, developed in collaboration with employee organizations, and agree that the funds will supplement, not replace, existing district funding. The department will annually review district compliance and renew grants, subject to appropriation, and will provide a public report on the fund's activities, including funding sources and expenditures.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S369