At a time when our children and families are in dire need of mental health support, LBUSD is proposing to cut mental health professionals. It is incomprehensible and devastating.

The need for mental health support has never been more pressing. Yet LBUSD is cutting all elementary Care Support Centers, all non-Title 1 middle and TK-8 Wellness Center staff completely. Middle schools with Title I funding and small thematic high schools will only have Wellness Centers staffed half-time. These centers do not just represent a place; they represent hope, care, and relief for countless students.

Research on the effectiveness of school social work services has shown significant positive outcomes for students. These outcomes include increased academic achievement, physical and psychological safety, improved mental and behavioral health, improved attendance, and social-emotional competencies. Additionally, school social work services have been shown to enhance family and community involvement.

The evidence supports the role of school social workers in providing comprehensive support and services to address the diverse needs of students, ensuring equitable access and culturally responsive services.

In response, we urgently call upon the LBUSD administration to reconsider this decision. They must acknowledge the critical importance of mental health services in our schools and ensure that adequate staff and resources are allotted to handle our students' needs. We propose reinstating full-time services of Wellness Centers in all middle and high schools, regardless of Title I funding. 

The wellbeing of our children should be a priority, not an afterthought. We cannot afford to gamble with their mental health during such formative years. We must act now to stop these closures and reductions! Please lend your support by signing this petition to save the Wellness Centers in LBUSD and fight for the mental health resources our students desperately need.