FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMEDIA CONTACT:
Austin Parrish, 651-297-8407
Austin.Parrish@house.mn.gov
News Release
Rep. Kresha Introduces Legislation to Proactively address Mental/Emotional wellness of Teachers & Students through HuddLUp Expansion Saint Paul, MN — Amidst the growing concern over long-term mental health challenges among students, a grassroots initiative focused on student mental wellness and K-12 spending on behavioral issues has garnered bipartisan support in Minnesota. To address this concern, Representative Ron Kresha (R – Little Falls) has introduced HF 4896 which would expand access the HuddLUp program to schools across the state. “We’ve heard from educators across the state that mental health support is becoming increasingly necessary in the classroom. This program is a major step forward in addressing these needs.” Said Rep. Kresha on the bill. “The aim here is to address student mental health issues and curb spending by empowering educators to prioritize mental wellness in classrooms.” Jerry Sparby, a retired educator, and the executive director of HuddLUp, underscores the program's dedication to fostering interactive classroom activities designed to cultivate essential social skills. He acknowledges the growing number of students with behavioral or emotional needs, especially in the early grades, which has led to a significant rise in referrals to special education programs for behavioral issues across many districts. In numerous classrooms, over half of the students now require special education support. HuddLUp aims to address social challenges preemptively, aiming to avert the development of long-term behavioral problems and alleviate the financial strain on schools. In a landscape where students grapple with social awkwardness and feelings of isolation, initiatives such as HuddLUp play a crucial role in proactively addressing these challenges. By offering vital support and mentorship to educators, HuddLUp enables them to better understand and meet the diverse needs of their students. Consequently, this fosters inclusive learning environments where every student feels valued and supported. ### |