anchor Description
This project provides for the placement of High School Wellness Centers (HSWC) at public schools. HSWCs provide physical health, mental health, and social services, as well as family support/youth development services which attempt to address the needs of youth and build their skills and strengths to be more successful in all sectors of their lives. Services are targeted to meet the specific needs of the school. This project is in accordance with the recommendations of the School Based Wellness Center Planning Group (SBWCPG), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). The selection of the host school is based upon criteria recommended by the SBWCPG. MCPS will oversee the construction of the HSWC sites. The County will occupy the space with DHHS personnel and contractors. The HSWCs are similar in design to School Based Health Centers with modifications to accommodate the older student population's needs and services. The project also provides for the design and construction of space for mental health and social services prior to the development of a comprehensive HSWC.
anchorEstimated Schedule
Design and construction of interim mental health and social support service space at high schools without a wellness center in operation began in FY22. FY23 funding shifted to FY24 to align with anticipated MCPS billing timelines. Full design and construction of three centers in the top four priority schools is funded to begin in FY24 (Blake, Einstein, and Springbrook high schools). Based on MCPS construction schedules, HSWCs will be completed for Woodward (FY27); Crown (FY28); Damascus (FY28); and Northwood (FY28) high schools. Based on MCPS project schedules, planning for Poolesville and Magruder high schools will be completed in FY23 and FY27, respectively.
anchor Justification
This project is recommended by the SBWCPG, DHHS, and MCPS. Each HSWC will provide services to address physical health, mental health, and social service needs, as well as provide youth development opportunities to the students.
anchorFiscal Note
FY22 Special Appropriation (Resolution 19-1220) added $750,000 in Current Revenue: General and $1.25 million in G.O. Bonds to modify school spaces to accommodate the delivery of mental health and youth development services for the school year beginning August 2022.
anchorCoordination
Department of Health and Human Services, Department of General Services, Montgomery County Public Schools