An Act to establish the Whole Child Grant Program

HD 2223 establishes the Whole Child Grant Program to fund public school districts in Massachusetts for student and educator wellbeing. The bill creates a dedicated fund administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, providing $150 per pupil for districts with 20%+ low-income students, $100 for 10-20%, and $50 for under 10%. Funds must be used for specific, allowable purposes including hiring school nurses, counselors, social workers, and psychologists (following state and national staffing recommendations), implementing mental health programs, and developing policies on student safety and technology use. School districts must submit plans detailing fund allocation, agree to supplement existing funding (not replace it), and report annually on expenditures and progress. The program directly affects all public school districts, with increased support targeted to those serving higher concentrations of low-income students.