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. The project also provides for spaces that offer nonsomatic mental health and youth development services. Services are targeted to meet the specific needs of the school. This project is recommended by 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.
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. DHHS performed a comprehensive analysis of need to determine the priority order for constructing the centers and convened the SBWCPG to finalize priority recommendations. The SBWCPG recommended funding four new high schools for full HSWC, including somatic services. The SBWCPG also recommended funding new mental health and positive youth development spaces in three high schools. Construction in seven schools will occur between FY24-FY31, with MCPS billing expected in FY25-FY32.
anchorCost Change
The SBWCPG recommends allocating funds to four new full HSWC spaces and three new mental health and youth development spaces. Of the seven projects supported with prior appropriations, six are able to coordinate with MCPS construction schedules. This coordination allows for substantial cost savings relative to standalone projects, resulting in lower costs than were anticipated in FY24.
anchor Justification
This project is recommended by the SBWCPG, DHHS, and MCPS. Full HSWC sites will provide somatic care, mental health services, and social services. Mental health and youth development focused centers will increase access to these essential services within high schools.
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. The Maryland General Assembly awarded $1 million during the 2023 session.
anchorDisclosures
The County Executive asserts that this project conforms to the requirement of relevant local plans, as required by the Maryland Economic Growth, Resource Protection and Planning Act.
anchorCoordination
Department of Health and Human Services, Department of General Services, Montgomery County Public Schools