Long Beach Unified said it will make cuts to student mental health support at its campuses next school year, dramatically reducing staffing of wellness centers in K-8, middle and high schools.
The district said it plans to decrease social workers by almost half, from 38 to 21, expected to save $2.8 million. While comprehensive high schools will keep one social worker full time, thematic high schools, Title 1 middle schools and Title 1 TK-8 schools will be allocated a social worker half time, the district said. Middle schools and TK-8 schools that don’t receive Title 1 funding will see their wellness centers close next school year.
LBUSD has significantly expanded student mental health services, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, using temporary funds to address “heightened student needs,” a district spokesperson said. As those funds expire, and in light of enrollment declines, the district is “realigning services to reflect ongoing funding while maintaining strong mental health supports for students,” the spokesperson said…