California still lags behind when it comes to mental health in schools

To the editor: California has made progress in addressing our mental health in general, but has failed miserably in accessing care in schools for many children, something that remains an issue across the country (“California teens struggle with anxiety, stress, study finds” October 21). According to one 2025 Kaiser Family Foundation Report“Nearly half of public schools report that they can effectively provide mental health services to all students who need them.” This means millions of students go without the support they need.

Schools are widely seen as places for young children to feel safe, where they can turn to teachers and administrators when they need help. Yet there is short staffing for mental health providers, Medicaid policies that stand in the way of support opportunities, and limited funding.

The government should fully implement it Recent Medicaid reforms Which allows schools to bill for behavioral health services and expand partnerships with mental health providers so we can get these kids the help they need. Every student deserves full access to education and their well-being, regardless of where they live. Investing in school mental health should not be optional; This should be an essential public health policy.

Brezeida Dominguez, Oakland