Since it’s inception in 2016, The Consortium has been a member of the Colorado Alliance for School Health, building lasting connections and creating valuable resources to ensure that Every Colorado Student is Healthy, Learning, and Thriving.

In 2024 the Annual National Alliance for Medicaid in Education (NAME) Conference was held in Colorado from October 15th through 18th.  The Consortium enlisted as a sponsor and focused on collaboration as a statewide model to supporting school districts and BOCES participating in the SHS Program. Our Executive Director volunteered as a member of the Conference Committee, and all Consortium staff members were able to attend the conference. The annual conference is always a great opportunity to gain and share knowledge related to Medicaid in Schools and the SHS Program. 

NAME is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization composed of members from the nation’s school districts and state Medicaid and Education agencies who are involved in administration of Medicaid for school-based services. Other members are those with an interest in the Medicaid-in-education field such as businesses, consulting firms, non-profit organizations and federal agencies.

In collaboration with our Community Partners and Stakeholders, The Consortium advocated for the inclusion of School Psychologists in the School Health Services (SHS) Program. 

School psychologists, along with other specialized personnel, are critical to implementing comprehensive school-based behavioral health services and support for Colorado’s children. Research shows that school psychologists improve both student and school outcomes, enhance conditions for learning, and create safe and supportive school climates. In 2022 school psychologists became fully recognized in the Colorado SHS Program as qualified behavioral health providers in a school based setting. This strategy provided additional funding to reinforce critical support systems for families and students, leading to long-term benefits in the health of our communities across the state.

Letter to HCPF RE School Psychologists

School Psychologist SHS Program Policy Handout