School district hires social workers to address student mental health needs post-pandemic

The Chelsea City Council Sub-Committee meeting on May 6, 2025, focused on the pressing issue of mental health support for students in the wake of the pandemic. Key discussions centered around the hiring of social workers to address the increased demand for mental health services among students.

During the meeting, officials confirmed that new social workers have been hired to provide essential support. The leadership team emphasized that these hires are crucial for meeting the mental health needs that have surged since the pandemic. One official noted that the social workers will offer one-on-one clinical interventions, which represent the highest level of mental health support available to students.

Despite these efforts, concerns were raised about the adequacy of current resources. An official expressed a desire to hire more social workers, stating that the need is so significant that even ten additional hires would not fully meet the demand. Currently, the district is also outsourcing some services to external providers, such as Cartwheel Care, to help fill the gaps in support.

The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges in providing sufficient mental health resources for students, underscoring the importance of continued investment in this area as the community navigates the aftermath of the pandemic. The committee's focus on mental health reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that students receive the necessary support to thrive academically and emotionally.