About Us

Who We Are

The School Safety and Mental Health Commission was established in the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 State School Aid Act to provide recommendations to reduce youth suicides and strengthen the mental health of school-age children, adolescents, and their families through a comprehensive, statewide approach.  Commissioners were appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Our Mission

The Commission shall act in an advisory capacity to the Governor and to the State of Michigan legislature.

Purpose

The Commission shall do all the following:

1. Collaborate to provide recommendations to reduce youth suicides and strengthen the mental health of school-aged children, adolescents, and their families through a comprehensive, statewide approach.
2. Seek input from educational professionals, mental health professionals, and organizations from across this state to suggest approaches to identify and support students at risk of behavioral health issues.
3. Collaborate with the Michigan suicide prevention commission on recommendations regarding youth suicide.
4. Create and maintain an online community through which best practices and resources can be shared, host professional trainings, and engage in public awareness efforts regarding mental health issues and resources.
5. Review possible uses of and make recommendations for the use of funds received by districts and nonpublic schools under section 97.
6. Convey recommendations to the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs and the Bureau of Construction Codes within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs concerning building construction that is consistent with school safety needs.