Norwalk schools credit Mid Fairfield partnership as youth mental-health needs ease, but funding uncertainty remains

Norwalk — District leaders and community partners on Tuesday described a network of school-based mental-health services delivered through partnerships that leaders say have helped lower student anxiety and depression measures since 2021, while warning that some grant funding will not continue without additional support.

Doctor Robin Breidinger, the district liaison for community programs, said partnerships with outside providers have expanded behavioral health capacity inside schools. "We are lucky enough to have Midfield Community Care at all of our schools," Breidinger said, describing embedded clinicians, bilingual staff and care coordinators who connect families to housing, food and medical appointments.

Marissa Mangone, speaking for Mid Fairfield, said the partnership with the district began in 2016 and has grown to serve all 21 schools. The…