During the Milford Public Schools School Committee meeting on December 5, 2024, significant discussions centered around the need for enhanced mental health support and the implications of out-of-district placements for students. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by the district in providing adequate therapeutic resources, particularly at the middle school level.

One of the primary topics was the necessity for a full-time Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), school psychologist, and adjustment counselors at Stacy Middle School. The absence of these positions has hindered the district's ability to offer therapeutic supports, leading to the closure of the Alternative Therapeutic Classroom (ATC) room. This program was previously designed to assist students transitioning back to school after hospitalization or those struggling with school settings, regardless of whether they had a formal disability.

The discussion revealed a growing concern about the rising number of out-of-district placements, particularly as students progress from elementary to middle school. The data presented indicated that while there were no out-of-district placements in preschool, the numbers increased to two in early elementary and then doubled to five in middle school. By grade 10, the number of students placed out of district reached ten, with two of those placements being recent. This trend raises alarms about the district's capacity to support students with intensive needs within its own programs.

The committee acknowledged that while the district has made strides in supporting students with mental health challenges, the current resources are insufficient. The presence of a dedicated school psychologist for the therapeutic program has shown success, but the overall demand for mental health services continues to outpace available support.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for the Milford Public Schools to address mental health resources and the implications of rising out-of-district placements. As the district grapples with these challenges, the committee's discussions will likely inform future strategies to enhance support for all students, ensuring they receive the necessary resources to thrive in their educational environments.