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Here are some of the things we’ve been reading about this week:
Improving adolescent mental health leads to long-term economic benefits.
OCR orders schools to end race-based programs.
Flu spike forces school closures nationwide.
To read more, click on the following links.
Research & Practice
PLOS: Psychological distress in adolescence and later economic and health outcomes in the United States population: A retrospective and modeling study
A new study finds that improving adolescent mental health can lead to significant long-term economic benefits, including higher labor force participation and lower public assistance usage. Researchers analyzed data from the National Longitudinal Study of Youth 1997 and found that adolescents experiencing psychological distress earned $5,658 less annually and participated less in the workforce 10 years later. Unlike previous studies, this research provides parameters compatible with government budget analyses, allowing policymakers to evaluate the economic impact of mental health policies. Using these estimates, the study modeled a hypothetical policy expanding preventive mental health care to 10% of at-risk adolescents, projecting $52 billion in U.S. budget savings over 10 years. With the current adolescent mental health crisis, researchers emphasize the urgency of investment, noting that improvements could offset policy costs and support critical services like integrated care. The findings offer a valuable tool for guiding future policy decisions.
The 74: Teen Girls’ Suicide Risk Is Rising. Sexual Identity Stress May Be a Factor
A rise in suicidal thoughts and behaviors among teenage girls coincides with a sharp increase in female high school students identifying as LGBTQ+. Between 2015 and 2021, the percentage of LGBTQ+-identifying girls grew from 15% to 34%, while suicidal thoughts among all girls increased from 23% to 29%. However, nearly half of LGBTQ+ females reported suicidal ideation, compared to 20% of heterosexual females. While increased visibility and acceptance allow more youth to come out, many still face discrimination, bullying, and family rejection, contributing to mental health struggles. Experts warn that general suicide prevention efforts may not be enough—targeted support for LGBTQ+ youth is important.
Policy
EdWeek: States Emphasize School Violence Prevention, Not Just Security
Lawmakers in several states are prioritizing school violence prevention by addressing weaknesses in threat detection and response. In Georgia, a new bill proposes a statewide safety database, school-based threat management teams, and anonymous tip reporting to prevent attacks like the 2024 Apalachee High School shooting. Similar efforts in Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, and New York emphasize threat assessment teams, mental health support, and information-sharing among schools, law enforcement, and social workers. Research shows most school shooters signal their intentions beforehand, making early intervention critical. However, experts stress the need for careful implementation to prevent bias against marginalized students and ensure privacy compliance. While schools increasingly adopt prevention strategies, there’s significant variability in their effectiveness. Researchers are analyzing past mass shootings to identify warning signs that could help refine threat assessment practices, aiming to create safer school environments through proactive intervention and responsible information-sharing.
K-12 Dive: OCR tells schools to cease race-based programs
The U.S. Department of Education has given Pre-K-12 schools two weeks to eliminate race-based admissions, hiring, and programming practices or risk losing federal funding, according to a Feb. 14 letter from the Office for Civil Rights (OCR). The directive follows Trump administration efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in schools. The letter cites Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Protection Clause, arguing that race-based preferences may discriminate against white and Asian students. While intended primarily for colleges, the policy’s impact on K-12 schools remains unclear, leading to concerns about whether affinity groups and cultural celebrations are allowed. OCR plans to issue further guidance. Critics, including PEN America, argue the directive undermines free speech and diversity efforts. The letter references the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling against race-conscious college admissions. The Supreme Court has left K-12 cases unresolved.
The 74: Interactive: Data From 9,500 Districts Finds Even More Staff and Fewer Students
Public schools added 121,000 employees last year despite serving 110,000 fewer students, continuing a trend of rising staffing levels. Data from over 9,500 districts show that three-quarters now have fewer students per teacher than in 2016-17, though some states, like Florida and Nevada, have seen student-to-teacher ratios increase. Federal relief funds fueled this hiring surge, but with those funds depleted, districts face potential staffing cuts. If schools returned to 2018-19 staffing ratios, 156,000 teachers could lose their jobs. While some districts have financial reserves, many must find new funding sources or reduce staff as budget pressures mount.
Around the Nation
Chalkbeat: This Indianapolis art teacher teaches life lessons alongside drawing lessons
Makeba Averitte, an art teacher at Liberty Grove Schools in Indianapolis, blends art with life lessons, fostering a supportive “village” for his students. His vibrant classroom is filled with supplies, affirmations, and even personal hygiene products for students in need. He integrates history and social-emotional learning into art, boosting students’ confidence and creativity. Inspired by his mother’s perseverance in learning to read as an adult, Averitte is dedicated to uplifting students and families, mentoring beyond the classroom. As president of the parent advisory council, he connects parents with resources and encourages students to pursue their dreams. He even supports their career aspirations with assignments and tools. Grounded in resilience and community, Averitte’s mission is to help students recognize their potential and believe in themselves. His teaching philosophy embodies the idea that education, encouragement, and a strong support system can transform lives.
K-12 Dive: California schools bring conflict resolution to the stage
A 20-week theater arts and conflict resolution program in Sacramento, run by the Northern California School of the Arts (NorCal Arts), helps students develop nonviolent conflict resolution skills while fostering creativity and community. Serving 800-900 students daily, NorCal Arts integrates social-emotional learning with acting, helping students rehearse effective communication strategies. Funded initially by a $600,000 federal grant to bring the program to Title I schools, the program is now sustained by state and other grants. Survey results show 99% of teachers see value in the program, with 98% affirming students practice effective communication. The program aligns with core social-emotional learning competencies, creating a safe space for self-expression. Additionally, NorCal Arts provides a pathway for aspiring teaching artists and makes theater more accessible by staging productions with professional resources.
EdWeek: Schools Close as Flu and Other Respiratory Illnesses Spike
A severe flu season has led to dozens of school closures across the U.S., with unusually high rates of respiratory illnesses spreading among students and staff. In some districts, outbreaks have forced temporary shifts to virtual learning. The Godley Independent School District in Texas, for example, closed after 650 students—nearly a quarter of its population—fell ill. Teachers are also heavily impacted, with some districts closing due to staffing shortages. The CDC reports at least 24 million flu cases, with hospitalizations and deaths rising. Experts link the surge partly to lower flu vaccination rates. Schools can help by setting up vaccination clinics and sharing clear guidelines on when sick students should stay home. While schools aim to maximize instructional time, they also play a key role in preventing widespread transmission within their communities.
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