In a recent Boone County Schools meeting, discussions centered on the critical importance of mental health support for students and the future of the First Robotics Competition (FRC) team, known as the Pybotics.

According to data from the CDC, nearly one-third of students have reported experiencing poor mental health since 2021, with over 40% feeling persistently sad. Alarmingly, more than 20% have seriously considered suicide, and nearly 10% have attempted it, with LGBTQ+ and Black students facing even higher rates. The negative impact of poor mental health extends beyond emotional well-being, affecting academic performance, decision-making, and increasing risks associated with substance use and violence.

In light of these statistics, the mission of the 1 in 5 initiative aims to combat the stigma surrounding mental illness and promote mental wellness through education and suicide prevention programs. The initiative is actively partnering with over 200 schools in Cincinnati and is eager to expand into Northern Kentucky, including Boone County Schools.

The meeting also featured passionate appeals from students and parents advocating for the continuation of the Pybotics team. Participants highlighted the transformative impact of the robotics program on their mental health and personal development. Students shared how being part of the team fostered a sense of belonging, improved their confidence, and equipped them with essential skills in STEM fields.

The Pybotics team is self-funded and operates with minimal resources from the district, relying on community sponsorships and fundraising efforts. Advocates emphasized that disbanding the team would deprive students of valuable opportunities for growth, networking, and scholarships, particularly in STEM-related fields.

Parents and alumni echoed these sentiments, recounting personal stories of how the program has positively influenced their children's lives, providing them with critical skills and a supportive community. They urged the school board to reconsider any plans to cut the program, emphasizing its importance in fostering future leaders and innovators.

As the meeting concluded, the board was left to weigh the implications of these discussions, particularly the urgent need for mental health support and the potential loss of a vital educational program that has proven to be a lifeline for many students in the district.