Syracuse City Schools Partner with SUNY Upstate Medical for Mental Health Program

SYRACUSE, NY — The Syracuse City School District (SCSD) has announced a transformative partnership with SUNY Upstate Medical University, supported by a $5.5 million federal grant aimed at enhancing mental health services for students and families.

The five-year initiative, set to begin in January 2025, will establish school-based mental health clinics in two district schools. These clinics will provide culturally responsive, in-person, and telehealth services, addressing a critical need for accessible mental health care. The program also aims to create a pipeline for training diverse and credentialed mental health professionals to serve the local community.

“This is a life-changing moment for our students,” said Deputy Superintendent Pamela Odom. “Through this partnership, we will improve student well-being by offering equitable access to mental health care. It’s not just a partnership; it’s a promise to our students and families—a commitment to equity, access, and opportunity.”

Dr. Mantosh Dewan, President of SUNY Upstate Medical University, emphasized the broader community benefits of the initiative. “Upstate Medical University has already expanded mental health services for children, including opening the Children’s Pavilion and other outpatient specialty services. However, this partnership goes further by delivering care directly within schools. This effort will relieve pressure on the larger community mental health system while attracting diverse professionals into the local workforce, strengthening our capacity to address youth mental health needs effectively.”

The initiative represents a collaborative effort, with dozens of community members contributing letters of support to secure the grant. SCSD expressed gratitude for their ongoing support and shared optimism about the program’s potential impact on student health and academic success.

“This program reflects our dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every child has the tools they need to thrive,” Odom added.

As the clinics prepare to launch, SCSD and SUNY Upstate Medical University hope this initiative will become a model for addressing mental health challenges in schools and communities nationwide.

4o