Gov. John Carney, state lawmakers and educators celebrated the Joint Finance Committee’s decision last week to add additional funding for low-income students and English Language Learners.
Carney proposed $60 million in his recommended budget for opportunity grant funding to school districts and charters over the next three years.
But the JFC also approved $15 million for school counselors, psychologists and social workers in high need elementary schools.
House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst says mental health services are vital for youth.
“Trauma can occur in abuse, neglect and violence. And can impact a child’s ability to regulate their emotions, sleep difficulty and even affect their immune system.”
JFC also approved more money for basic special education services for children in kindergarten through third grade.
But JFC member and House Education Committee Chair Earl Jaques says he still wants to see substitute teacher pay increase.
The General Assembly must still pass the funding.
