California high schools expand student mental health wellness centers

California school districts are expanding mental health resources through the opening of new student wellness centers.

The South Monterey County Joint Union High School District recently inaugurated wellness centers at King City and Greenfield high schools. Funded by the district’s Local Control and Accountability Plan, these centers were created by redesigning existing campus spaces. Each facility is staffed by two full-time licensed mental health therapists who provide crisis intervention, individual and group support, and short-term counseling.

In Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara High School has opened an expanded and improved Wellness Center as part of the Santa Barbara Unified School District’s ‘Culture of Care’ campaign. This initiative follows feedback from student advisory committees, parents, and faculty regarding mental health needs. The center provides tools for mindfulness and self-regulation, including sensory toys and a wellness pantry stocked with hygiene products and snacks.