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.