SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The South Bend Community School Corporation announced the Valinhos Foundation has awarded them along with the Paramount Health Data Project and Oaklawn to launch a mental and physical health support program designed to impact student academic achievement.

Officials say the initiative will leverage a data-driven approach to deliver and track the effectiveness of mental and physical health supports and academic services in elementary and middle schools.

Organizers say the cornerstone of the program is educator training.

SBCSC staff will be given the skills to use mental and physical health data to support academic growth.

The program also aims to expand access to vital mental health resources, track the impact of these services on student success, and foster improved academic performance.

The partnering organizations will meet regularly to review progress and make any needed adjustments, allowing the program to adapt to students' evolving needs.

Officials say the program will run through June 2026.