Gov. Baker Leads School Safety Discussion In Burlington

BURLINGTON (CBS) - With kids going back to school, Governor Charlie Baker is pushing a plan to spend tens of millions of dollars to improve mental health services in the classroom.

The governor wants to use some of the state's budget surplus to make public schools safer.

On Monday, he and Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito made their case face-to-face with educators, police and state leaders at a roundtable discussion at Burlington High School.

They want to direct more than $70-million to security improvements, including $40 million for mental health services and personnel. The money would also be used for a "Say Something" campaign, a school safety website and training for teachers, health officials and first responders.

The governor's proposal also includes funding to further address the opioid epidemic earmarking $10 million for substance abuse prevention, screening and education for students.

For more information, visit mass.gov.