Bill > HR9513

This bill, titled the "Community Schools and Health Equity Act," directs the Secretary of Education to establish a grant program, in collaboration with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to support community schools in implementing or expanding health services directly within schools. Community schools are defined as full-service schools offering a range of support. Eligible entities, such as local school districts or partnerships involving school districts and organizations like Federally qualified health centers (which are clinics that serve underserved areas and receive federal funding) or public health agencies, can apply for these grants. The funds can be used for various purposes, including hiring and training health professionals like nurses and social workers, providing essential services such as nutrition assistance and housing referrals, addressing factors that impact health (social determinants of health), offering culturally appropriate services for English learners and immigrant families, supporting trauma-informed care and crisis response, and developing health career pathways for students through partnerships with colleges. The program prioritizes applicants serving low-income students, English learners, or those in medically underserved areas, and those partnering with Federally qualified health centers or public health agencies. The Secretaries of Education and Health and Human Services will coordinate the program, aiming to reduce administrative burdens and provide technical assistance. Grant recipients must report annually on their activities and student outcomes, and the Secretary of Education will report to Congress on the program's effectiveness and best practices. The bill also clarifies that it does not override existing federal privacy laws like FERPA and HIPAA.