The Danvers School Committee meeting held on February 10, 2025, highlighted urgent concerns regarding student mental health, particularly in light of alarming survey results indicating nearly 10% of a specific group of students have attempted suicide. This statistic was described as a "crisis number" by committee members, who emphasized the need for immediate action.

During the meeting, members praised the efforts of Danvers Cares, a local initiative focused on mental health support, for their role in conducting the survey. However, they stressed that the findings reflect a serious issue that requires collective recognition and intervention. The committee acknowledged that even if these numbers are below the state average, they still represent a significant crisis that cannot be overlooked.

The discussion underscored the importance of addressing mental health challenges among students and exploring various strategies to provide support. Committee members expressed a commitment to finding effective solutions in collaboration with Danvers Cares and other community resources.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a critical reminder of the pressing mental health issues facing students in Danvers, with a call to action for the community to come together to address these challenges effectively. The committee plans to continue discussions on this topic in future meetings, aiming to develop a comprehensive approach to support student well-being.