Eastchester School Board allocates $2.2M for mental health and special education improvements

In a recent work session held by the Eastchester Union Free School District Board of Education, the focus turned to the pressing issues of mental health and special education within the secondary school system. As discussions unfolded, the board highlighted its commitment to enhancing student and staff mental health services, a strategic priority that has gained momentum under the leadership of Dr. Meyer.

The board announced significant investments aimed at bolstering mental health resources, including the establishment of a student outreach and research center. This initiative will be funded through a combination of the general fund budget and grants, notably a $2.2 million grant secured in collaboration with Southern BOCES. The Westchester County Office of Mental Health is also contributing, allowing the district to employ a full-time social worker on the secondary campus and provide psychiatric services to students and their families.

In addition to mental health support, the board is implementing programs designed to enhance educational opportunities. The continuation of the RULER program from Yale University, complemented by the Panorama survey, aims to foster emotional intelligence among students. Furthermore, initiatives like the tenth-grade career day and support for college essay writing are set to enrich the academic experience.

Turning to special education, the board proposed a two-year plan to hire additional staff to meet the needs of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This includes a new special education teacher to support co-teaching initiatives, which have expanded access to challenging courses for a broader range of students. The board emphasized the positive impact of these programs, noting that a significant percentage of eighth graders are now engaging with advanced subjects like earth science and algebra, paving the way for future success in higher-level courses.

The proposed hiring of a second special education teacher will also support the Multi-Tiered Support System (MTSS), with a focus on co-teaching in subjects such as physics and AP Economics. This strategic move aims to ensure that all students, regardless of their backgrounds, have the opportunity to thrive in rigorous academic environments.

As the Eastchester Union Free School District moves forward with these initiatives, the board remains committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational landscape, ensuring that both mental health and academic excellence are prioritized for all students.