Applaud the Court for Protecting Mental Health Funding

In a major victory for students, educators, and community safety, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has blocked Donald Trump’s attempt to slash up to $1 billion in school mental health funding. These critical grants — created after the Parkland and Uvalde school shootings — help districts hire counselors, psychologists, and mental health professionals in high-need schools across the country.

A coalition of states sued after the Trump administration moved to abruptly eliminate the funding, and both the district court and the Ninth Circuit agreed: the cuts were likely “arbitrary and capricious” and violated federal law. The appellate judges — appointed by presidents from both parties — found no basis for Trump’s Education Department to gut programs designed to keep students safe and supported.

At a time when schools are facing a nationwide mental health crisis, this ruling ensures that lifesaving programs will continue — and that political agendas won’t override the needs of children, families, and educators.

Add your name to applaud the courts and the states defending these essential mental health grants — and to stand up for safe, supported, and thriving public schools.