BPS discusses nurse staffing and student mental health support at public hearing

In a recent meeting focused on the Boston Public Schools (BPS) budget for fiscal year 2026, key discussions highlighted the critical role of school nurses and the importance of mental health support for students. The meeting, held on April 14, 2025, underscored the ongoing challenges faced by students and families, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.

One of the primary topics was the staffing of school nurses. BPS currently employs a total of 64 nurses, ensuring that every school has a nurse on-site during school hours. However, there are instances when a nurse may be absent due to illness or leave, leading to temporary coverage solutions. This raises concerns about the consistency of health support available to students, especially as nurses are increasingly involved in addressing mental health issues alongside physical health.

Councilor Mejia brought attention to the broader challenges faced by families, including issues related to housing and basic needs. She emphasized the need for nurses to be integrated into student support services, allowing them to report and address the various challenges students may face at home. The conversation highlighted the importance of collaboration between nurses and social workers to provide comprehensive support to families in distress.

The meeting also touched on the physical and mental health education provided to students. BPS has established a wellness policy that mandates a minimum of 45 minutes of physical education per day for students up to grade 8, with a goal of 150 minutes of physical activity each week. However, measuring the mental health support provided to students remains complex, as it encompasses various roles, including school psychologists and counselors.

As the discussion concluded, there was a clear recognition of the need for enhanced tracking of mental health support and physical activity to better understand and address the needs of students. The councilors expressed a commitment to ensuring that all students receive the necessary resources to thrive, particularly in light of the ongoing mental health crisis exacerbated by the pandemic.

This meeting reflects a growing awareness among Boston's leaders of the interconnectedness of physical and mental health in education, and the urgent need to support students holistically as they navigate their educational journeys. The outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping future policies and resource allocations within BPS, ultimately impacting the well-being of students across the city.