The Maryland State Board of Education convened on April 30, 2024, to address critical issues surrounding student mental health, particularly focusing on trauma prevention and postvention strategies. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for enhanced mental health support in schools, driven by alarming data on youth suicide and mental health challenges.

Mary Gabel, Assistant Superintendent for Federal Programs and Student Support, introduced a presentation led by Dr. April Turner, a school psychology supervisor. The discussion centered on findings from the Maryland Youth Risk Behavior Survey, which revealed that 21% of surveyed students had considered suicide in the past year. Notably, the data indicated significant disparities among multiracial youth and those identifying as LGBTQ+, underscoring the vulnerability of these groups.

The survey, administered to over 58,000 middle and high school students, also showed a concerning rise in mental health issues since 2013, with increases in feelings of sadness or hopelessness and suicidal ideation. These trends highlight the necessity for ongoing prevention and intervention efforts in mental health.

The meeting also addressed legislative measures aimed at improving mental health training for school staff. Since the passage of Lauren's Law in 2015, which mandated training for school counselors, the scope has expanded to include all certificated staff who interact with students. This training focuses on recognizing signs of emotional distress and suicide risk, ensuring that staff are equipped to support students effectively.

In addition to training, the Maryland Safe to Learn Act requires local education agencies (LEAs) to develop emergency response plans for suicide incidents, emphasizing a coordinated approach to mental health crises. The establishment of behavioral health coordinators in each LEA aims to facilitate and enhance behavioral support services across districts.

The board's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the mental health crisis among youth, exacerbated by factors such as social isolation and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that Maryland is taking significant steps to address these challenges, with a focus on comprehensive mental health support and proactive measures to safeguard student well-being. The anticipated release of new survey data will further inform these efforts, guiding the development of targeted programs and resources for students in need.