05/13/2026
I was in attendance at tonight’s school board meeting and my public comments are below:
Good evening school board.
Sarah Zeiders, parent, & Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
While reading a recent LNP article regarding author John Green’s response to this board’s removal of his book, “Turtles All the Way Down” I was confused why members of this board were framing awareness, representation, and discussion of mental health as threats to children. In reality they can be the tools that can help protect and support them.
According to The National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI), one in seven youth experience a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression, yet only half receive treatment or support.
Acknowledging mental health struggles is not promoting them. Creating awareness about depression and anxiety does not cause depression and anxiety. Providing students with language, education, and opportunities for understanding does not cause harm. In many cases, it helps students feel less alone and more willing to reach out before they reach a crisis.
As a mental health professional, I can tell you one of the greatest barriers to treatment is shame. Many young people do not have the words to explain what they are experiencing, and are afraid to ask for help because they fear judgment.
Research shows us that untreated mental health concerns directly impact learning. A student cannot fully learn when they are overwhelmed and lack the support or language to understand what they are experiencing. Anxiety, depression, and other forms of emotional distress affect concentration, attendance, motivation, and overall academic performance. It also increases the risk they may turn to drugs, alcohol and other harmful behaviors to avoid these feelings.
Research is also very clear about what actually protects children. Emotional regulation, supportive social connections, access to resources, and having at least one trusted adult to talk to. These are called “protective factors” and they contribute to improved, positive outcomes for individuals who may otherwise struggle without them.
What isn’t a protective factor? Isolation. Silence & Avoidance … which are reflected in decisions made by this board. While trauma therapists and crisis counselors are valuable - they are reserved for escalated situations. Early identification and intervention are some of the most effective tools we have to support struggling students. I think it is important to acknowledge that the board removed mental health screenings over a year ago. Removing those supports without replacing them was not - and is not - protective.
So when a board member proclaims their decisions are in the interest of “protecting children,” I have to ask you - protecting them from what? Awareness? Empathy? Honest conversations? The reality that mental health struggles exist in our schools and communities?
Real protection is not pretending difficult things do not exist. Real protection is making sure students have the support, language, and access to resources they need to navigate those realities safely.
Finally, May is Mental Health Awareness month. For anyone out there that may be struggling - you can call or text 988, where there is 24/7 support available. You matter and you are not alone.
