A photo of a CPS family from the District's Youth Mental Health Day event in 2023. Grant funding will support this event as well as other key district initiatives in the areas of student behavioral and mental health services.

CHELSEA, Mass. – Chelsea Public Schools (CPS) was awarded $100,000 in grant funding from the Healey-Driscoll Administration on Monday (February 24, 2025) to support the district’s continued efforts to expand student behavioral and mental health services available for Chelsea youth.

This funding will strengthen CPS’ mental health and social-emotional learning (SEL) initiatives and help implement comprehensive, evidence-based interventions to ensure students receive the mental health support they need to thrive academically and emotionally.

Superintendent Dr. Almi G. Abeyta commented, "I am grateful for the $100,000 in grant funding awarded to Chelsea Public Schools, which will enhance our ongoing efforts to prioritize the mental health and well-being of our students. This funding allows us to continue building a stronger, more inclusive support system that helps students not only succeed academically, but also thrive emotionally. Through this investment in comprehensive mental health services, culturally responsive practices, and vital community partnerships, we are ensuring that every student in Chelsea receives the care and resources they need to grow and succeed both inside and outside the classroom."

The grant will support several key initiatives such as:

• Universal Mental Health & SEL Screening Systems: Investing in tools such as ECINS and the Alongside App that assist in identifying and addressing student needs across Tier 1 (universal), Tier 2 (supplemental), and Tier 3 (intensive) interventions.
• Expansion of Individual Student Support Plans: Implementing targeted, data-driven interventions for students requiring additional support
• Enhancing Culturally Responsive Mental Health Supports: Providing professional development for staff, embedding racial equity in SEL practices, and ensuring that students and families have a voice in shaping mental health initiatives.
• Youth Mental Health Day: Portions of the funding will be used for CPS’ district-wide event that engages students, families, and community partners in raising awareness and connecting families with mental health resources.
• Mental Health Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations with organizations like Mass General Hospital (MGH), Cartwheel Care, and community-based mental health providers to extend support beyond the school setting.

CPS students, staff and community members gathered at the Williams School for the 2024 Youth Mental Health Day. 

"This funding allows us to expand our capacity to support student well-being in meaningful, sustainable ways," said Brenda Pena, MSW, Director of Social Work, Social-Emotional Learning, and Specialized Student Supports. "By prioritizing culturally responsive mental health interventions and community collaboration, we are ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed."

This investment underscores Chelsea Public Schools’ commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment where students, families, and staff can access critical mental health resources.