As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and support student well-being, we want to share information about a new statewide program, the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI), which helps school districts expand access to mental health and wellness services. Beginning in the 2026-27 school year, families may opt in to this no-cost program.
How it Works
Through the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, California allows school districts to bill health insurance, including Medi-Cal, for certain school-based mental health services that students may receive, such as counseling, wellness check-ins, and related supports. The purpose is to help schools sustain and strengthen student mental health services by using available insurance funding, thereby preserving school resources and supporting continued access to care for students.
Here’s what this means for you and your child:
- Providing health insurance information is optional.
- If your child receives eligible mental health services at school, the District may bill your insurance for those services if you opt in.
- There is no cost to families. You will not be charged a co-pay or deductible, and it will not impact your child’s available mental health visits through their insurance provider.
- Your child can still receive school-based support, whether or not you choose to share insurance information.
- This does not change your child’s access to services – it simply helps schools receive reimbursement so we can continue offering current levels of support, with a goal of eventually increasing support services.
- Any information shared is confidential, in accordance with state and federal privacy laws.
Opt In During IUSD’s Annual Data Confirmation
Families will have the opportunity to opt in during IUSD’s annual Data Confirmation process, which takes place each August before the start of the school year. All IUSD families are required to complete Data Confirmation through the Parent Portal to ensure that student emergency contacts, health information, and other important details are up to date. As part of this process, families will receive information and a reminder about the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative.
Why This Program is Vital to Support Students
School districts are often one of the first places students and families turn for mental health support, whether through services provided on campus or connections to trusted community resources. Through the District’s Annual Survey, families, students, and staff consistently identify mental health as a top priority.
In recent years, many of these services have been supported by one-time funding sources – temporary funds provided during and after the pandemic that are no longer available. To meet the needs of our students and families and address rising costs, this program helps ensure schools can continue to offer these important supports with a goal of eventually increasing support services.
Your Partnership Can Make a Difference for Students
We know that when students have the skills and support they need to manage their mental health, they are better able to engage in learning and achieve at higher levels. By opting in, you help us sustain and expand the supports that promote students’ academic, social, and emotional well-being.
To learn more about this statewide program and to view a list of frequently asked questions, visit our dedicated webpage at iusd.org/CYBHI. Visit IUSD’s Mental Health and Wellness webpage to learn more about available services and resources for students and families.