State health agency receives $2.5 million to boost school-based services

OLYMPIA — Washington schools will benefit from a federal health services grant, according to an announcement by the Washington State Health Care Authority.

The HCA, in partnership with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, was awarded $2.5 million by the Baltimore-based Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to improve and expand school-based services, according to the announcement. The funds will be used to improve student attendance, increase academic performance and support overall well-being for students. 

The grant includes $500,000 for the first year and an additional $1 million for both the second and third years, the HCA wrote. Washington is one of 18 states to receive grant funds totaling $50 million to boost school-based services.

“HCA is honored to have been selected to provide federal capacity-building resources in partnership with schools and OSPI,” HCA Director Sue Birch wrote in the announcement. “This initiative builds on years of health transformation investments, addressing not only medical needs but also the growing social needs of our school-aged children in Washington. Through the dedicated efforts of the Medicaid school-based team and our integrated Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery, we will enhance the support schools can offer to students still recovering from the impacts of COVID, the opioid and fentanyl crisis, violence, and the widespread challenges of anxiety and depression. We are excited to strengthen the resilience and expand the opportunities for Washington’s students, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.”

Schools are unique locations to deliver needed health care services to children and youth, especially for those enrolled in Apple Health and the Children’s Health Insurance Program the HCA wrote. From preventive and behavioral health care to physical care, school-based services offer families and students convenient care from trusted partners where children learn and grow. These services have a track record of advancing children’s health and improving educational outcomes. 

HCA is planning community engagement activities for students and families, school districts, tribes, and other groups and partner agencies to improve and expand school-based services, including improved student access to behavioral health services and supports, according to the announcement. CMS will partner with Washington to implement new requirements and opportunities described in the school-based services guidance published in 2023.