This bill creates two new federal grant programs to improve mental health support in schools across the country. The first program, called the School Mental Health Awareness Grant Program, gives money to schools to teach students about mental health. These programs would help students recognize signs of mental health problems, learn how to manage their emotions, understand what mental health services are available to them, and reduce the shame people feel about having mental health conditions. Schools would also train their teachers to teach this material properly. The second program, the Mental Health Career Promotion Grant Program, encourages high school students (grades 9-12) to consider careers in mental health by offering them internships, mentorships, and chances to shadow mental health professionals like therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists.

To receive these grants, schools must partner with local mental health organizations, community groups, or colleges. The grants last five years and can be renewed. The federal government is setting aside $50 million per year for each program from 2025 through 2029, meaning $100 million total per year. Schools that receive grants have to track how well their programs work and report back to the government, though they can't spend more than 10 percent of their grant money on paperwork and reporting. Essentially, this bill aims to make mental health education a bigger priority in schools and help address the shortage of mental health professionals by encouraging young people to enter the field.