Texas schools face at least $600 million in federal funding cuts, with multiple mental health programs at risk, particularly those implemented in response to the pandemic and mass shootings including programs for chronic absenteeism, mental wellness, crisis services, and school counselors.
Two federal programs that provide 86% of school mental health funding for more than 2,500 campuses statewide are at risk of being cut or strictly regulated. The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, created in response to the Uvalde school shooting, funds the Texas Center for Student Supports and the Stronger Connections Grant Program. The former implements mental health training and support in 60 high-needs districts, while the latter helps 98 school districts with case management tools and mental health personnel. Funds expected to last until 2027 are projected to dry up by end of year. An analysis from the Learning Policy Institute estimates the freezing of five other federal programs will result in withholding approximately $600 million from Texas, more than 16.1% of the state’s K-12 federal funding.
Texas schools also face expiring COVID-19 relief funds and cuts to Medicaid and CHIP, which provide millions annually for hiring and retaining mental health providers, offering preventive screenings, and supporting students with disabilities. During the recent legislative session, Texas lawmakers approved an $8.5 billion school funding increase, but most was earmarked for teacher pay, with roughly $250 million for support staff, not necessarily including mental health positions. Over 70% of schools reported that sustainable funding for school-based mental health staff and professional school counselors was the main barrier to adequate resources.
Currently, such funding is combined with school safety in a general allotment in the state school funding formula, and schools tend to prioritize security. House Bill 1257 by Representative John Bryant attempted to secure dedicated mental health funds but did not pass. School leaders emphasize that without federal support, they must get creative through partnerships. Some schools struggle just to retain teachers through raises while maintaining mental health services.
The endless loop of prioritizing mental health only after tragedy occurs is unsustainable, advocates argue, calling for dedicated state and federal funding similar to mandatory school resource officer positions.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.texastribune.org/2025/07/14/texas-schools-budget-cuts-mental-health/