Hays County received funds from the Behavioral Health for Schools Grant through the American Rescue Plan Act, or ARPA. The county is awarding the money to districts who sign a subrecipient agreement and agree only to use the funds as allowed.
As a result of COVID-19, ARPA is providing these funds to help pay for behavioral health services for Dripping Springs students affected by the pandemic.
According to Tisha Kolek, director of counseling and health services for DSISD, the money will provide two mental health staff members to the district.
The county is providing $200,000 to include both personnel salaries, contract behavioral services and indirect costs. According to the agreement, DSISD will not spend over $200,000.
DSISD has from now until Dec. 31, 2026, to use the funds.
