Hunterdon Central High School Faces Backlash After Mental Health Services Cut
Hunterdon Central Regional High School, one of New Jersey’s largest, was criticized for cutting mental health services to save money days before the new school year. Due to rising mental health needs, students, parents, and community members are furious about the cut.
The school board cut counseling resources recently. The main factor was budget issues. District leaders acknowledged severe financial decisions, but the community reacted fast and emotionally. Since teen anxiety, despair, and stress have been rising in New Jersey and elsewhere for years, many families worry that cutting support workers and mental health programs could imperil pupils.
Dissatisfied students feel disregarded. Some advised increasing school counseling services since kids are still dealing with school stress, social concerns, and adjusting to life after the pandemic. Parents worried that this choice would make it harder for struggling students to get support from school-based mental health programs.
Recent New Jersey student health campaigns have been major. Many districts receive state and federal funds for student counseling and intervention. Hunterdon Central cuts, which deviate from these bigger initiatives, disappoint many families. Critics say the school board should use safer budgeting practices.
Institutional free speech and health policy debates have increased the pushback. Hunterdon Central was praised and criticized for allowing a student drag show this year. Some question how the district prioritizes students due to mental health care cuts.
Mental health professionals have long cautioned that cutting school programs could have long-term effects. Without counseling, students may quit school, suffer academically, or act out. Removing schools as safe places for youngsters to obtain help may erase years of progress, warn advocates.
Parents and students say they’re ready for new school year adjustments. Many plan to keep raising concerns at board meetings and urge the administration to reconsider. Hunterdon Central’s heated dispute highlights the state’s wider school issues: how to handle money without affecting students’ mental health.
Sources:
NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
New Jersey Department of Education
Hunterdon Central Regional High School Board Meeting Notes
