to the editor: California has made progress in treating our overall mental health, but has failed badly in accessing care in schools for many children, something that remains a national problem (“California youth struggle with anxiety and stress, study finds” October 21). According to a Kaiser Family Foundation Report 2025“About half of public schools reported that they could effectively provide mental health services to all students who needed them.” This means that there are millions of students who are left without the necessary support.
Schools are widely seen as a place where young children feel comfortable, where they can turn to teachers and administrators when they need help. However, there are staffing shortages for mental health providers, Medicaid policies that hinder support opportunities, and limited funding.
The State must fully implement recent Medicaid reforms to allow schools to bill for behavioral health services, expanding partnerships with mental health providers so we can get these kids the help they need. Every student deserves full access to care for both their learning and well-being, regardless of the state in which they live. Investing in mental health at school should not be optional; should be essential public health policy.
Brezeida Dominguez, Oakland
