The San Francisco County government meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on a significant resolution aimed at enhancing mental health services for students. The resolution seeks retroactive approval for an agreement between the San Francisco Department of Public Health (DPH) and the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) to provide educationally related mental health services, known as Individualized Related Mental Health Services (IRMS), to students with mental health challenges.

Dr. Farnaz Marman, director of the Children Youth Family System of Care and Behavioral Health at DPH, presented the resolution, emphasizing the importance of these services, which have been in place for nearly a decade. The IRMS program is designed to support students with severe mental health issues as part of their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Services include individual and group therapy, case management, and consultations with parents and educational staff.

The meeting highlighted the growing demand for mental health services in schools, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Jean Robinson, Chief of Special Education Services at SFUSD, noted that the district is experiencing an increase in mental health needs among students, leading to a waiting list for services. She expressed concern over the adequacy of current resources and the ongoing struggle to recruit qualified clinicians to meet the rising demand.

Robinson explained that while the district has wellness centers and other preliminary support services, the IRMS program requires a more structured approach, including assessments and specific goals set by IEP teams. She acknowledged that the district is actively working to expand its mental health services, including the creation of a new program administrator position to enhance the mental health framework within schools.

The resolution's approval is seen as a critical step in addressing the mental health needs of students in San Francisco, with officials recognizing the importance of collaboration between the DPH and SFUSD to provide comprehensive support. The meeting concluded with an invitation for public comment, allowing community members to voice their opinions on the proposed agreement.