In Flemington, New Jersey, the Hunterdon Central Regional High School Board of Education voted to eliminate a long-standing student mental health program, raising concerns among students, staff and parents.
In a 4-3 vote last month, the board made an executive decision to not renew its contract with CarePlus NJ, a nonprofit, based in Paramus, NJ, that has provided on-site therapists and suicide-risk assessments at the school for the past five years.
In addition to CarePlus, Hunterdon Behavioral Health, an organization that has offered free, school-based youth services for more than 30 years, is also being cut.
Seeing growing concerns develop as a result of the board’s decision, Hunterdon Central Superintendent Jessica Cangelosi-Hade addressed these concerns at a recent meeting.
“As a district we believe that student academic success is our highest priority,” Cangelosi-Hade said. “At the same time, we recognize that true academic achievement is only possible when students’ needs are being met.”
Cangelosi-Hade also explained that they are aware of the increasing number of students who need mental health care and the actions they’re taking resolve the issue.
“We have seen an increase in student mental health needs over the past six years; this is true on a national level,” Cangelosi-Hade said. “We have partnered with NJ4S for free mental health services for students.”
Amanda Matlee, a mental health counselor and child study team case manager at Del Val, addressed the importance of supporting student mental health needs.
“We’re talking about mental health needs that are very high, like suicidal ideation or suicide attempts,” Matlee said. “If someone is feeling suicidal or makes an attempt, you have to go in and bolster the community because you could have a contagion effect.”
The decision to cut mental health programs at Hunterdon Central has left many students, parents and staff frightened. These services have supported students for years, and some fear the new plans may not be enough. While the district is taking steps to offer other resources, the changes that will meet the growing mental health needs of its students are yet to be seen.
