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Here are some of the things we’ve been reading about this week:

The CDC reports early improvement in teen mental health, but challenges remain.

Universal school meals gain attention as a campaign issue. 

North Carolina proposes new physical activity requirements for high schoolers. 

To read more, click on the following links.

Research & Practice

K-12 Drive: CDC finds early signs of mental health improvement among teens  
The 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey by the CDC shows early signs of improvement in teen mental health since the COVID-19 pandemic, but significant concerns remain. Female and LGBTQ+ students report higher levels of violence, poor mental health, and suicidal thoughts than their male, cisgender, and heterosexual peers. Despite some positive trends, there has been an increase in bullying and safety concerns, with more students missing school due to feeling unsafe. The CDC emphasizes the crucial role schools play in addressing these issues and suggests measures like quality health education, stronger school connectedness, and fostering positive environments to support student mental health. While progress has been made, the data highlight ongoing challenges, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Human Rights Campaign: 2024 Disabled LGBTQ+ Youth Report
A Human Rights Campaign report reveals that 30% of LGBTQ youth have at least one formal disability diagnosis, making them particularly vulnerable to in-school victimization. LGBTQ teens are twice as likely as their peers to have a documented disability, with many facing mental health issues like depression and anxiety. The report highlights significant challenges, including frequent harassment and limited access to gender-inclusive facilities, especially for transgender and nonbinary students. Despite these barriers, disabled LGBTQ youth are more likely to disclose their identity to school staff and family. The report underscores the link between unsafe school environments and poor mental health, stressing the need for inclusive and supportive policies.

EdWeek: 6 Ways for Schools to Promote Student-Athletes’ Well-Being
Student-athletes face challenges in balancing academics, athletics, and mental health. Experts recommend several strategies for educators to support their well-being. Encouraging healthy sleep is crucial, as adequate rest is vital for both academic and athletic performance, as well as mental health. Schools should avoid scheduling early practices that undermine students’ sleep. Promoting a growth mindset is also important; teachers can help student-athletes view challenges as opportunities for growth, fostering persistence and focus. Additionally, educators should guide student-athletes on the risks of social media, particularly its potential negative impact on mental health which can help students navigate the pressures of online presence. Furthermore, encouraging participation in extracurricular activities outside of sports can enhance both academic and athletic success. Lastly, maintaining open communication and ensuring access to mental health resources are essential to supporting student-athletes’ overall well-being.

Policy

The New York Times: Why Are Free School Lunches Becoming a Campaign Issue?
The concept of “universal school meals” is gaining attention as some states, including Minnesota, offer free breakfast and lunch to all students regardless of income. This initiative, supported by many Democrats, aims to reduce hunger and improve academic performance by eliminating the stigma and administrative burden associated with free meal eligibility. The program, largely funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture with some state contributions, has sparked debate over its cost and efficiency. While proponents argue it promotes equity and better nutrition, opponents cite concerns about the financial burden and question whether wealthy families should receive free meals. The issue is expected to arise in the upcoming presidential race.
See Also: Summer meals participation dropped with end of waivers

K-12 Dive: What can be done about the ‘fragmented’ K-12 AI policy landscape?
Nearly two years after ChatGPT’s emergence, AI policies in U.S. school districts remain inconsistent. As of June, only 15 states have issued AI guidance, which often lacks detail and leaves districts struggling with procurement, data-sharing, and implementation. This fragmented approach risks creating unequal access to educational technology. The Center on Reinventing Public Education (CRPE) warns that the current edtech market’s “race to the market” could lead to a flood of AI products that fail to improve student outcomes. To address this, CRPE urges stronger leadership and collaboration among stakeholders to develop clear AI strategies, prioritize equity, and create actionable implementation plans. They recommend targeted funding, particularly for disadvantaged communities, and propose innovative AI applications in education, citing examples like Georgia’s Gwinnett County Public Schools. The U.S. Department of Education is expected to release an AI resource bank this fall to further assist schools.

ABC News: Back to School: Dept. of Instruction suggests physical activity policy for high schoolers
As the new school year begins, students face excitement and anxiety due to new classes and environments. The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) emphasizes a “whole-child” approach, aiming to ensure student health. Recently, NCDPI recommended new physical activity requirements for high schoolers, extending existing policies for younger students. Data shows that increased physical activity positively impacts mental health, which is particularly important given the current shortage of emotional support staff in schools. Ellen Essick, Chief of the Healthy Schools Section, stresses the importance of social workers and guidance counselors in supporting student well-being. The proposed changes are under review and will be voted on by the state board of education this fall.

Around the Nation

The 74: Virginia Designates Additional Aid for At-Risk Students
Virginia schools will receive an additional $371.3 million over the next two years to support low-income and at-risk students, following a state budget increase. Lawmakers redirected $650 million annually and added $180 million per year to enhance the at-risk program, which most localities have joined. This comes after a report revealed Virginia schools receive 14% less state funding than the national average. The new funding model uses a weighted approach based on poverty levels and student need, with 60% of funds distributed at a flat per-student rate and 40% based on poverty concentration. This investment aims to address the longstanding underfunding of Virginia’s school divisions.

The 74: How Ohio Schools Reduced Chronic Absenteeism 
Ohio schools are tackling chronic absenteeism, which surged during the pandemic, by leveraging a positive approach to discipline encouraged by the 2018 Supporting Alternatives for Fair Education (SAFE) Act. This law emphasizes prevention over punishment, aiming to improve student behavior and school environments through positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS). These strategies range from simple classroom management techniques to more extensive support like counseling. Research from Miami University found that schools implementing PBIS had lower absenteeism rates compared to those that did not. For example, in the 2022-23 school year, chronic absenteeism was 5.38% lower in schools using PBIS. This approach, supported by state standards and teacher training, is seen as a model for other states struggling with attendance issues. Despite some improvement, chronic absenteeism remains a significant challenge in Ohio, prompting continued efforts by the state’s Department of Education to address the issue.

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