Parents and Clinicians Rally Against Proposed Cuts to SEL Services in Lynn Schools

The Lynn School Committee meeting held on March 27, 2025, focused heavily on proposed budget cuts to the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) department, sparking passionate pleas from parents and educators about the critical need for mental health support in schools.

Parents and staff voiced their concerns about the potential impact of these cuts on students' well-being. One parent, speaking on behalf of her daughter, highlighted the importance of SEL clinicians in providing essential support for students struggling with anxiety and other mental health issues. She described how her daughter, a high-achieving sixth grader, faced debilitating anxiety that was alleviated through the resources and safe space provided by the SEL team at Marshall Middle School. The parent urged the committee to reconsider the cuts, emphasizing that reducing mental health services would leave many students without necessary support.

Jennifer Fucci, a clinical supervisor, reinforced this message by detailing the extensive reach of the SEL team, which supported over 3,700 students in just 22 days. She pointed out that cutting these services could lead to long-term challenges for students and increased costs for the district, as many students would require out-of-district placements if they did not receive adequate support within the schools.

Other speakers echoed these sentiments, stressing that mental health is foundational to academic success and overall development. They argued that the SEL department is not just a luxury but a necessity for creating safe and nurturing school environments. Clinicians shared personal stories of their experiences with students, illustrating the profound impact of their work on individual lives and the community as a whole.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the committee to prioritize mental health services, with multiple speakers urging a vote against the proposed cuts. The overarching message was clear: investing in SEL is crucial for the well-being of students and the future of the Lynn community. The committee's decision on the budget cuts will have significant implications for the support available to students in the coming school year.