Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, student mental health has received heightened focus. Nearly 90% of schools reported increased social and emotional support for students during the 2021/22 academic year. However, limitations due to insufficient licensed health professionals and funding remained a challenge, as reported by 39% of schools in 2021/22. This represents a reduction from 54.3% for inadequate funding and 40.1% for limited access to professionals in 2019/20. During this period, the U.S. Department of Education noted that $275.7 million of emergency school funds were allocated toward mental health support for students and staff. However, competing budget priorities, limited resources, challenges within the education system, and stigma surrounding mental health issues contribute to underinvestment in this area. They have implemented initiatives focusing on the recruitment, preparation, hiring, and retention of diverse and highly qualified school-based mental health providers, particularly in underserved communities. These efforts contribute to enhancing mental health support within K-12 educational settings, thereby playing a significant role in safeguarding the overall well-being and academic performance of students nationwide.