Request for Qualifications for School-Based Mental Health Services

Durham Public Schools (DPS) is seeking qualified agencies with relevant experience to submit a Request for Qualification (RFQ) to provide school-based mental health services across the district. Selected agencies will be eligible to submit proposals to deliver mental health support within each participating school, where DPS will facilitate a counseling-friendly environment that emphasizes confidentiality and reduces stigma. The initiative emphasizes co-located mental health professionals working directly within the school setting, a model recognized nationally for its effectiveness in increasing student access to mental health care, especially for students who might not otherwise receive such services. Evidence suggests that integrating mental health services in schools leads to improved academic outcomes, decreased suspensions and grade retention, and reductions in childhood mental health issues such as depression, conduct disorders, and ADHD. These professionals also contribute to fostering a school culture of competence, growth, and inclusion for all students. The solicitation, titled "Request for Qualifications for School-Based Mental Health Services," was posted on April 29, 2025, with a response deadline of June 26, 2025. The contract is valued between $500,000 and $2,000,000 and is managed under North Carolina’s State and Local Education Department (SLED). The project aims to enhance mental health accessibility within schools, supporting DPS’s broader goal of creating a supportive, inclusive educational environment. Interested agencies can find additional details through the provided online link.