Classrooms across the province have become increasingly complex, with mental health challenges adding to that complexity. To help address these issues and ensure students are fully supported, Alberta's government is investing $69 million over three years into the Mental Health and Well-Being Grant.
"When students' mental health needs aren't met, classrooms become more complex. This money will give schools the tools they need to support student mental health, helping to reduce complexity and create a better learning environment for everyone."
Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education and Childcare
This funding for mental health supports in schools comes from Budget 2025. Investing in mental health will contribute to the work of the Class Size and Complexity Cabinet Committee. These efforts to address aggression, complexity and mental health concerns support classrooms and student well-being.
Mental health is essential to academic success, social development and wellness. This investment will provide school boards with the resources needed to address the unique mental health needs of their students.
"Improving youth mental health is critically important. This investment will complement our commitment to establish up to 60 CASA Classrooms across the province by 2027, with 25 already supporting students with complex mental health needs."
Rick Wilson, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction
Funding will be provided to all school boards so they can expand access to school-based services that promote mental wellness, build resilience and reduce pressure on school staff through improved access to mental health tools, training and resources.
"Students with positive mental health and well-being are more ready to learn and to engage in educational experiences. This funding will support us in enhancing our services and supports to be more responsive to the needs of individuals and to better nurture the holistic development of all students."
Sandra Palazzo, board chair, Edmonton Catholic Schools
The Mental Health and Well-Being Grant builds on the success of previous pilot projects that tested new ways to address student mental health in schools. School boards will be required to report annually on how the funding is used and the impact it has on student well-being.
Quick facts
- The Mental Health and Well-Being Grant funding can be used on supports that address student well-being, social-emotional development and mental health. Examples include:
- Training staff in social-emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, and violence threat risk assessment.
- Hiring a navigator to connect students with external supports.
- Bringing in wellness coaches or counsellors to provide in-school mental health support.
- Using surveys or data to guide future learning opportunities.
- Delivering social-emotional learning in classrooms.
- Hiring a teacher for CASA classrooms.
- Up to 20 per cent of the grant can be used on individualized supports and services. These can include but are not limited to:
- Specialized counselling (regular caseload and with a specialized provider).
- Clinical services such as psychologists, a behaviourist, specialized assessments (diagnostic) or an addictions counsellor.
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