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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Wyoming lawmakers debate school’s role in youth mental health

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Wednesday, January 22, 2025   

In Wyoming, lawmakers are split on the role schools should play in improving children's mental health, although experts said they are pivotal.

Wyoming's House Bill 180 would create a mental health program for K-12 schools across the state to screen students who are having issues, stabilize them and refer them to appropriate services.

Angela Kimball, chief advocacy officer for the mental health advocacy organization Inseparable, said despite high rates of depression and anxiety among youths, there are common roadblocks to getting help.

"Everything from cost and stigma to insurance barriers and transportation issues," Kimball outlined. "And school-based services really help overcome a lot of those barriers."

In a state consistently ranking low in the nation for youth mental health, the interim Joint Education Committee cast a tie vote in November on a similar draft bill, which did not move forward. Opponents expressed concerns about funding and parental consent.

According to data from Inseparable, youths who get school-based services are six times more likely to complete treatment than those who get services elsewhere.

But it does not mean the work needs to fall entirely on school staff. In fact, Kimball pointed out some states are incorporating a wider variety of services and people into children's treatment, sometimes through telehealth.

"Staff trained as care coordinators to help families navigate and access services, wellness coaches to offer brief support and young adult peer supporters who can serve as mentors, coaches and navigators," Kimball explained.

According to data from the Hopeful Futures Campaign, Wyoming has one school social worker for roughly every 950 students, about one-quarter of the recommended ratio.

Disclosure: Inseparable contributes to our fund for reporting on Criminal Justice, Health Issues, Mental Health, and Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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