Program Overview
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 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.
Award Components
SBHSN Grant Support
The grantor assists with the recruitment and onboarding of a fully funded qualified mental healthcare professional for each school campus at no cost to the school. This professional will deliver evidence-based mental health support services directly to students.
Performance-Based Grant Award
Qualifying schools are eligible to receive a fully funded Performance-Based Grant Award, renewable for up to five (5) years (multi-year funding), subject to continued eligibility, grant participation, compliance with grant requirements, and available funding. 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 grant's objectives.
Addressing the Student Mental Health Crisis
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, supported by state Managed Care Organizations, aims to provide targeted mental health interventions that promote resilience, enhance academic performance, and create a safer and more supportive school environment.
Key Issues & Grant Impact
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.
Statement of Need — Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this grant, schools must demonstrate significant needs in key areas affecting student well-being and academic success.
School Enrollment
The school must serve at least 500 students in grades 6–12 to ensure the grant 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.
Eligible Applicants
- Local Education Agency (LEA)
- Charter School Management Company
- Charter School
- Public School
- Private School (Faith-Based and Non-Faith-Based)
Grant Coordinator Requirements
As a condition of the grant award, a designated staff member must serve as the Grant Coordinator. The Coordinator will be responsible for the following duties throughout the entire grant period, serving as the primary point of contact and main liaison between the School and SBHSN.
- 1
Communication Coordination
Facilitate all communication regarding grant implementation with school administrators, staff, and relevant stakeholders.
- 2
Grant Orientation
Upon grant award, the school Principal and Grant Coordinator will participate in a mandatory on-demand New Grantee orientation video. Instructions for accessing the video will be provided in the Grantee Award Letter.
- 3
Completion of Grantee Readiness Profile
Ensure the school completes the Grantee Readiness Profile before the grant start date.
- 4
Submission of Student List
Ensure the School Principal submits a list of at least 120 students who may benefit from mental health services available through the Grant.
- 5
Interview Coordination
Along with designated personnel (e.g., school Principals), schedule and conduct interviews with qualified mental health provider candidates recommended by SBHSN.
- 6
Participation in Grant Monitoring
The School Principal and Grant Coordinator will join scheduled calls with SBHSN to discuss grant implementation and ongoing progress.
Award Information
| Application Due Dates | First Monday of July, September, November, and February |
| Funding Mechanism | Grant |
| Length of Project | Five Years |
| Cost Sharing / Match Required | No |
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How to Apply & Contact
Applications are submitted through SBHSN's secure online application. Complete the application in full, including your school's enrollment data, Free/Reduced Lunch eligibility rate, and a brief description of your student mental health needs. Applications are due on the first Monday of July, September, November, and February, and are reviewed by the Grant Review Committee following each deadline. Awards are made subject to available funding and committee review.
Ready to apply?
Applications are reviewed by a committee of education, healthcare, and legal professionals.
Apply for FundingQuestions? grants@sbhsnetwork.com