Empire State Review Team 
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New York City — New York City’s Department of Education announced a groundbreaking mental health initiative yesterday aimed at addressing the growing mental health crisis among students. Starting this fall, all public schools will have access to full-time mental health counselors, wellness programs, and a 24/7 crisis hotline for students and families.
“We’re investing in our children’s well-being,” said Schools Chancellor David Banks. The $200 million program is funded by a combination of city and federal grants.
Advocates praised the move as a long-overdue response to rising rates of anxiety and depression among young people. Critics cautioned that implementation could be challenging, given existing staffing shortages.
