Schools brace for impact if Congress cuts Medicaid spending
For school districts still getting their financial footing after the Great Recession, the
Administrators say programming and services even beyond those that receive funding from the state-federal health care program could be at risk should
"If they have less
Districts would have to look at nonmandated positions and programs if forced to bear more of the costs for services for poor and disabled students required by federal law, said
The
But, said
In March, a
President
An association survey polling 1,000 school leaders reported that schools spent two-thirds of the money to support specialists, from school nurses and social workers to speech pathologists.
The association, as part of a coalition of more than 50 school and child health advocates, warned congressional leaders in a recent letter against shifting more costs to states and in turn, local communities. They said that would lead to cuts in services and benefits to children, especially in districts with high poverty rates.
"A lot of districts have never really covered from the Great Recession, they're still in it," Gentzel said, "and some states have not restored their funding. I think it's the context of all of this that's almost as important as the story about
Opponents of the changes say these are potential impacts:
SCHOOL NURSES
Students needing to check their temperature or searching for a tampon may not be able to walk down the hall to see a school nurse. Health professionals such as nurses, physical therapists, speech pathologists, social workers and psychologists may be forced to rove between schools, outsourced or have some of their duties taken on by administrative staff.
"There are health barriers to students getting their education," said
MENTAL HEALTH
Behavioral issues in the classroom are often addressed with counseling through social workers and psychologists.
HEALTH SCREENINGS
When schools host campus-wide preventative screenings, for everything from vision, hearing, asthma and mental health, some costs are recouped based on the number of
Liepa, from the
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
School districts often direct and assist students' families with resources, such as helping them sign up for
EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES
A major hit on school budgets could mean less for new or replacement equipment and supplies. That could affect things such as outfitted buses, assistive devices and other items for children with special needs so they can be in school. This could trickle down to nonmandated items such as special science lab materials or theater club costumes for general education students.
Liepa said the
SPORTS, CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
Optional but highly popular programs for students and families, such as sports, clubs and after-school activities, could be slashed, as the offerings are generally the first to go in a budget crisis.
"Most districts have long picked the low-hanging fruit in their budgets," Gentzel said.
Ho reported from
Follow
Senior Drivers Can Get Advantageous Auto Insurance Discounts
Politics in the pulpit: Local pastors address religious liberty, endorsing politicians
Advisor News
Annuity News
Health/Employee Benefits News
Life Insurance News