Calif. Auditor Examining Student Mental Health Services

FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ) — An investigation into whether California school districts and local educational agencies are providing adequate treatment for students with mental illness, has been launched by State Auditor Elaine Howell.

It comes amid complaints by families, advocates, and child psychiatrists that some of the most-needy children are struggling to get care.

A change in law 4 years ago shifted responsibility from counties to schools, and that’s resulted in fewer statistics being made available.

The audit will look at how districts and agencies are meeting their obligations, and how they’re spending the money allocated for special services.