Rhode Island schools launch free mental health service with Hazel Health

Burrillville School Committee has approved a new partnership with Hazel Health, providing free virtual mental health services to students through certified professionals. This initiative, funded by the Rhode Island Department of Education, aims to address the growing demand for counseling services, which often see parents waiting months for appointments.

The program will be available outside of school hours, allowing families to access support after school or from home. Participation is voluntary, and parents will only need to provide basic demographic information if they choose to enroll their child. Importantly, the service incurs no costs for families or the school district, as it is fully funded for the remainder of this school year and the next.

The rollout of this program will involve coordination with school principals and support staff, ensuring that families are informed and can navigate the referral process effectively. A designated school liaison will assist in connecting parents with Hazel Health, streamlining communication and support.

The committee emphasized that data privacy is a priority, with no student information shared unless parents explicitly consent. This initiative is seen as a significant step toward enhancing mental health resources for students, reflecting the district's commitment to addressing the needs of its community.

As the program is set to launch, the committee will monitor participation rates to assess its effectiveness and sustainability beyond the initial funding period. This proactive approach aims to provide essential mental health support to students, fostering a healthier school environment.