Mental health services took a big cut in the most recent state school budget.

Last year, lawmakers allocated $328 million to the issue. This year, that number is just $26.5 million.

Oakland Family Services President Jaimie Clayton wants parents to know they can still find resources outside of the classroom.

“So even if we can’t get it right in the schools, which is certainly ideal for on-the-spot intervention, there are other services, there are continuums for families,” Clayton said.

Clayton says there’s still a need for mental health services in schools, despite less money for resources:.

“The cuts are not saying that there’s going to be no mental health services in the school. I think there will just be less, and it’s potentially less sustainable over time than it used to be. So I think the key is really community agencies working closely with the schools.”

What happens next is anyone’s guess. Some schools may continue to fund mental health services despite the budget cut, but it’s uncertain what happens without more funding in the future.

Clayton says many community organizations are equipped and ready to help students when the services are not available inside of schools.