The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) released an investigative report into the adequate provision of mental health services in Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools. As a result, the GAO has found seven recommendations for Department of Defense (DoD) action. “ DoD agreed or partially agreed with six recommendations, and disagreed with one, which GAO maintains is valid.” Agreed upon or partially agreed upon recommendations will strengthen support for student mental health and academic services. The report calls for the DoDEA to issue guidance discouraging the use of school counselors as standardized testing coordinators, ensuring they remain focused on student support. It also recommends assessing the current workforce’s capacity—particularly access to school psychologists and school counselors—to implement the federally recognized Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to support academic and behavior needs of students and developing a plan to address any staffing gaps. The report also urges comprehensive evaluations of the Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) and School Behavioral Health programs, incorporating feedback from staff and leaders to improve effectiveness. DoD disagrees with the recommendation that the Secretary should instruct the Director of the Directorate of Prevention, Resilience, and Readiness to assess how the Adolescent Support and Counseling Services (ASaCS) program is being used, gather input from DoDEA staff and school leaders, and create a plan to address any concerns revealed by the evaluation.
Administration Rescinds Access to Education Services for Undocumented Children
In a sharp departure from previous federal guidelines, the Administration has announced its intention to roll back eligibility for domestic assistance programs for children and families who are undocumented. Specific to education and citing Executive Order...
0 Comments