Lawmakers in Ohio are considering a proposal to give K-12 students three mental health days a year and define the days as hours. “Meanwhile, students pay attention to their emotional and psychological well-being instead of attending school.”
“We need to break down the stigma around mental health care.” D-Forest Park Rep. Jessica Miranda told Center Square. “This law informs children that prioritizing their mental health is not only acceptable but important to achieving a healthy lifestyle. It will help us succeed later.”
It’s not a bad idea, and one that lawmakers should seriously consider.
But school districts must also take seriously their responsibility to find out why some students need to leave the classroom to protect their mental health.
Giving kids a day to thaw might be what they need.
For others, the help they need is more than a day outside the classroom.
The wording of the bill should prevent children from simply being given time off.
