DES MOINES, Iowa — The State of Iowa is allocating $20 million in federal relief funds to boost initiatives focused on education.
The announcement was made during a press conference hosted by Governor Kim Reynolds on Wednesday, June 23. The money is funding a partnership between the Department of Education and the University of Iowa, which is aimed at addressing mental and behavioral health needs of students across the state.
It was prompted by an uptick of anxiety and depression among students, said Iowa Department of Education Director Ann Lebo.
"Addressing these growing needs and ensuring students feel connected and supported is crucial to their overall well-being and academic achievement," said Lebo.
Starting during the summer of 2021, all school districts will receive crisis response services, training for teachers and student teachers, and program evaluations.
Lebo said more information would be shared during a three-day summit in Des Moines come early November.
