Central ND News

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) suggests a ratio of one school psychologist per 500 students, but the national average is approximately one psychologist per 1,065 students. In North Dakota, for the 2023-2024 school year, the ratio was even higher at one psychologist per 1,204 students.

In response to this shortage of mental health providers in schools, U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Todd Young (R-IN) have introduced the Mental Health Excellence in Schools Act. This legislation aims to increase the number of trained school psychologists, counselors, and social workers by allowing the U.S. Department of Education to assist with covering costs for students in certain graduate programs through partnerships with eligible academic institutions.

Senator Cramer stated: “Like so many fields across the state, there simply aren’t enough school-based mental health professionals.” He emphasized that ensuring children's well-being and academic success should be a priority and that the bill will help alleviate financial burdens for those pursuing graduate degrees in this field.

Senator Young highlighted the importance of access to mental health resources for student safety and success: “Access to mental health resources improves the safety, well-being, and academic success of Hoosier students,” he said. The bill is intended to support school-based mental health workforces and address critical needs.

Senator Shaheen pointed out that there is a nationwide youth mental health crisis: “Folks in New Hampshire and across the country know we’re facing a nationwide youth mental health crisis – and having a sufficient number of mental health professionals in schools...improves the well-being, academic performance and life outcomes of all students,” she remarked. She added that their bipartisan legislation will provide necessary resources to strengthen the workforce pipeline.

The bill has received endorsements from several organizations including NASP, American School Counselor Association, School Social Work Association of America, American Counseling Association, and American Psychological Association.