In response to an unprecedented mental health crisis among children and youth in the United States, UConn School of Social Work (SSW) has secured a significant $587,633 training grant from the Mental Health Service Professionals Demonstration Program. This grant, part of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, will benefit four high-need, diverse school districts in Connecticut: Hartford Public Schools, New Britain Consolidated School District, Vernon Public Schools, and Waterbury Public Schools, which collectively serve 50,000 students.
The funding will enable the launch of the “School Social Work Scholars (SSWS)” program, a transformative initiative designed to increase the number of diverse social workers in underserved schools. Graduate social work student interns will be placed in practicum assignments where they will address gaps in mental and behavioral health services in these communities, directly benefiting students’ well-being and academic outcomes.
UConn SSW is uniquely positioned to lead this initiative, with nationally recognized faculty and a strong, culturally competent curriculum. Dr. Laura Curran, Dean of UConn SSW and principal investigator of the grant, emphasizes the importance of creating a diverse pipeline of social work professionals trained in trauma-informed, evidence-based practices. The program aims to build local capacity in Connecticut’s most underserved districts, equipping professionals with the tools to support students facing mental health challenges.
The SSWS program will also focus on supporting marginalized groups, including LGBTQIA+ youth, who often face higher rates of mental health challenges. With an extensive history of working with LGBTQIA+ communities, UConn SSW faculty, including Dr. Meg Paceley, recognize the importance of providing these students with access to counseling and support within the school environment.
Additionally, the SSW program’s diversity is evident, with more than 30% of graduates identifying as BIPOC. UConn’s commitment to ensuring representation within the profession is further demonstrated through initiatives like the Adelante! program for Spanish-speaking social work students. These efforts, along with community partnerships, will help meet the critical need for mental health professionals in schools.
“This grant is a major step forward in addressing the critical shortage of mental health professionals in schools and ensuring every child has access to the support they need to thrive,” says Curran. The SSWS program is a significant part of UConn SSW’s ongoing commitment to improving mental health services for Connecticut’s youth.
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