About SBHSN & Grant Opportunity for Schools

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The School-Based Healthcare Solutions Network (SBHSN) is a private grant-giving organization that funds and supports under-resourced public and public charter schools. We aim to expand access to quality mental health services on school campuses. 

SBHSN is now accepting applications from public school principals interested in implementing student mental health support services. Grant funds must be used to expand access to mental health support services for students with a documented history of chronic absenteeism, behavioral challenges, or declining academic performance. 

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Award Components

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1. SBHSN Grant Support: The grantor will manage the recruitment, placement, and training of a fully funded mental health professional for each school campus at no cost to the school. This professional will deliver evidence-based mental health support services directly to students. All compensation, including salary and associated costs, will be covered by the grant, up to $85,000 annually.
    

2. Performance-Based Grant Award (up to $5,000 per school per year): Qualifying schools are eligible to receive a discretionary grant of up to $5,000 per year, awarded in renewable five-year cycles, for a total of up to $25,000 over five years. These funds are allocated directly to the principal, who has complete discretion in determining how best to use them to support student service initiatives aligned with the program’s objectives. 
    

Addressing the Student Mental Health Crisis: 

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The School-Based Healthcare Solutions Network (SBHSN) is offering this grant to address the growing need for mental health support among students in grades six through 12. Middle and high school students face increasing mental health challenges that impact their academic success, attendance, and overall well-being. This initiative aims to provide targeted mental health interventions that promote resilience, enhance academic performance, and create a safer and more supportive school environment.

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Key Issues & Grant Impact:

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• Rising Mental Health Crisis – Up to 1 in 5 children experience a mental disorder annually, with nearly half receiving no treatment. Left unaddressed, these issues lead to increased dropout rates, poor academic performance, and a higher risk of substance abuse and self-harm.

• Academic Impact – Mental health challenges contribute to lower grades, absenteeism, and higher rates of suspension and expulsion. Research shows students with untreated conditions score 11% lower in literacy and math.

• In-School Support is Essential – Over half of U.S. youth with mental health issues do not receive treatment, especially in underserved areas. Schools provide a critical access point for support.

• Addressing Inequities – Students from low-income families face higher risks due to poverty-related stressors such as food insecurity and unstable housing. This grant prioritizes schools with the greatest need.

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STATEMENT OF NEED

To qualify for this grant, schools must demonstrate significant needs in key areas affecting student well-being and academic success:

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• School Enrollment – The school must serve at least 500 students in grades 6-12 to ensure the program reaches a broad student population.

• Economic Need – At least 70% of students must be eligible for Free or Reduced Lunch (FRL), highlighting the need for additional mental health support in economically disadvantaged communities.

• Chronic Absenteeism – A substantial number of students struggle with consistent school attendance due to frequent unexcused absences or unknown reasons for prolonged time away from school.

• Behavioral Challenges – A high volume of students exhibit persistent behavioral concerns, as reflected in frequent disciplinary actions, referrals, suspensions, or declining academic performance.

• Social-Emotional Well-Being – Many students require targeted support to address issues such as anxiety, depression, and emotional withdrawal, which impact their ability to engage in learning.

• Preventative Mental Health Support – Nearly half of the student body would benefit from early intervention and counseling services to address emerging mental health concerns before they escalate.

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RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE REQUIRED GRANT COORDINATOR

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• As a condition of the grant award, a designated staff member must serve as the Grant Coordinator (hereafter referred to as the Coordinator). The Coordinator will be responsible for the following duties throughout the entire grant period:

• Primary Point of Contact: The Coordinator will act as the primary liaison with SBHSN, ensuring clear communication and effective grant management.

  • Communication Coordination: The Coordinator will facilitate all communication regarding the grant program with school administrators, staff, and relevant stakeholders.

  • Grant Orientation: After the grant is awarded, the Coordinator will participate in an orientation call with SBHSN. Instructions for scheduling this call will be included in the Grant Award Letter.

  • Completion of School Readiness Profile: The Coordinator must ensure that the school completes the School Readiness Profile before the grant start date.

  • Submission of Student List: The Coordinator will submit a list of all students (minimum of 120) identified as needing mental health counseling support services.

  • Interview Coordination: The Coordinator, along with designated personnel (e.g., school Principals), will schedule and conduct interviews with qualified candidates recommended by SBHSN for the Transitional Coach positions.

  • Participation in Program Monitoring: The Coordinator will join scheduled calls with SBHSN to discuss program implementation and ongoing progress.

 

Eligibility

 

Local Education Agency (LEA)

Charter School Management Company 

Charter School 

Public School

Private School (Faith-Based and Non-Faith-Based)

 

Award Information

 

Funding Mechanism: Grant

Length of Project: Five Years 

Cost Sharing/Match Required?:  No​