Albertville City Schools in North Alabama is set to make a significant investment in student mental health, thanks to a $3.5 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s School Based Mental Health Services program. The funding will allow the district to expand its mental health services, hire additional staff, and introduce new programs designed to increase student access to quality counseling and mental health support.
“This grant is a pivotal moment for Albertville City Schools, enabling us to strengthen mental health services for our students,” said Superintendent Bart Reeves. “It ensures they have the essential support to excel academically, build meaningful relationships, and achieve emotional well-being.”
The district plans to use the grant to hire at least one credentialed mental health counselor per school, potentially adding up to six counselors across the district. While specific service locations are still under consideration, the goal is to ensure that mental health services are accessible to all students. Additionally, the grant will fund scholarships for current staff to earn mental health counseling credentials, as well as stipends for staff and counselors to attend off-contract mental health training.
In an effort to address chronic absenteeism, the district will also hire a part-time employee to focus on the underlying causes of truancy. According to state data, about 16% of Albertville City Schools students missed more than 18 days of school last year. This new position will involve regular home visits to identify students in need of mental health support and help connect them to the appropriate services.
Further, Albertville City Schools intends to launch a “mental health advocate” program, where students will be trained to assist their peers with mental health challenges, support teachers, and help connect families to local counseling resources.
The grant will also support translation services for counseling sessions and enhance access to telehealth services, ensuring that more students and families can benefit from remote mental health care.
This grant is part of a broader, $70 million federal initiative aimed at increasing the availability of school counselors, social workers, psychologists, and other mental health professionals, especially in underserved areas. In 2024, Birmingham City Schools received a $3.1 million grant under the same program, with plans to hire up to 25 mental health providers and therapists.
“Schools play a critical role in delivering mental health services, as students are more likely to seek care when it is readily available within their learning environment,” the release stated. “By integrating mental health care into schools, Albertville City Schools will be able to support more students through education, prevention, and early intervention.”
