Henrico School Board to discuss results, expansion of new mental health program at Aug. 28 meeting

At a 3:30 p.m. work session Aug. 28, the Henrico School Board will receive an update from Henrico Schools officials on the Henrico CARES program launched last year.

After seeing a 42% increase in suicide-risk screenings over three years, HCPS and county officials created a five-year mental healthcare plan for HCPS students and families in March of 2024. During five years, the division plans to spend $17.8 million on the program.

Last school year, HCPS added five additional school counselor positions and partnered with two online services, Care Solace and Hazel Health, to provide families with free access to therapy and other mental health services. 

During the past year, Henrico CARES has seen some significant success, with a 5% decrease in alcohol and drug use, a 10% decrease in threat assessments, and a 40% decrease in persistently dangerous behaviors.

For the 2025-2026 school year, HCPS will add five new mental health positions, expand Hazel Health teletherapy services to middle-schoolers, and open a free youth mental health clinic at the Oak Avenue Complex.

At the work session, school board members will also hear an update from HCPS officials on the division’s major capital projects.

The board also will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday for a monthly meeting, during which members of the public will have the opportunity to speak at a public forum.

Both meetings are open to the public and will be held at New Bridge Learning Center Auditorium, 5915 Nine Mile Road. Both also will be streamed online at henricoschools.us.

Liana Hardy is the Citizen’s government and education reporter. Support her work and articles like this one by making a contribution to the Citizen.