119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 9513
The Community Schools and Health Equity Act directs the Secretary of Education to establish a competitive grant program that provides funding to schools and school districts to integrate health services into community schools. Eligible recipients include local school districts, groups of districts, and partnerships involving schools, health centers, and community organizations. The grants can be used to hire health professionals like nurses and mental health counselors, establish or expand school-based health clinics, provide wraparound services such as nutrition and housing assistance, and create partnerships with health institutions to develop career pathways for students. The legislation prioritizes funding for schools serving low-income students, English learners, immigrant families, and areas with health professional shortages. Grantees must submit annual reports on the number of students served and outcomes related to health, attendance, and academic performance, while the Department of Education must report to Congress at least every three years on the program's effectiveness and recommendations for improving coordination between education and health systems.