In an effort to support school districts in addressing the increased need for mental health services as a result of the pandemic, the New Jersey Department of Education’s (NJDOE) Office of Special Education has partnered with the Northeast and Caribbean Mental Health Technology Transfer Center (MHTTC) at Rutgers University to provide regional technical assistance sessions designed to support schools in developing school-based mental health services and supports.
During these sessions, the NJDOE announced in a July 21 broadcast memo, the MHTTC will provide an overview of comprehensive school mental health services, strategies for identifying needs, and ideas for how to target funds to specific tiers and gaps in existing services (with emphasis on the use of COVID-relief funding).
NJSBA Executive Director Dr. Lawrence S. Feinsod stressed the importance of mental health programs for students.
“Effective education can’t take place until students and staff have their social-emotional needs met,” Feinsod said. “The technical assistance sessions will provide important information that will help districts deliver these fundamentally necessary services to students and staff.”
NJDOE staff will be available during the sessions to address questions and provide support.
Please select from the following dates:
- Southern New Jersey and New Jersey Shore Region: Thursday, July 29, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Please register here.
- Northern New Jersey Region: Tuesday, August 10, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Please register here.
Please note: You are encouraged to attend your region-specific meeting but are welcome to join another meeting as your schedule allows.
Contact information Please contact Kristy Ritvalsky, kmr359@shp.rutgers.edu or OSEinfo@doe.nj.gov if you have any questions.