Sample Letter to Send Education Finance Committee Members

Education Committee Conferees,

I am writing as a parent and as someone who cares about the health and wellbeing of our children. I’m writing to express my support for the inclusion of the provision that would ensure that Minnesota school districts are reimbursed for mental health services provided to students by qualified, licensed professionals in their schools (originally HF 1175/SF 1028). 

[Insert any personal story you would like to share about your child receiving services, or being unable to receive services in schools] 

The strong link between education, health and mental health is undeniable. My child is able to learn in schools when all of their needs are met. When my child can receive the services they need, in school, without the need to find an outside practitioner, experience wait times, take my child out of school and travel - our whole family benefits. We know other families rely on these trusted practitioners in schools to care for our children, and our schools deserve the resources and supports to make sure all students’ needs are met.

The expansion of eligible practitioners in schools to include qualified, licensed school social workers ensures appropriate reimbursement to school districts across the state for the high quality services they provide which play a critical role in the physical and mental health and wellbeing of Minnesota’s children. Federal law requires that schools provide the services called for in Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and Individualized Family Support Plans (IFSPs), and state law requires schools to seek insurance reimbursement for services, however the services provided by school social workers have been left out.

This provision will address this gap and ensure that schools maximize Federal Medicaid resources. If passed, this change would bring in an estimated $10M in sustainable and untapped Federal funding. Additionally, at no cost to the state, this policy change represents an enormous step toward closing the cross-subsidy for special education services. 

As reported by Minnesota Public Radio last year, nearly one third of Minnesota students reported they struggle with long-term mental health problems. Rates of depression and anxiety have skyrocketed, and with a shortage of community-based mental health professionals, schools represent a much needed resource to provide students with  desperately needed help.

I am asking the legislature to support this common-sense policy change that will have a real and substantial impact on the resources schools have with which to support students. I believe every child requires and deserves the services that will help prepare them for learning today and into the future.

Sincerely,   

[Your Name]