Board of Education Member Mark Powell concerned about student mental health

SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – While most California school districts are planning only virtual instruction to start the academic year, San Diego County Board of Education member Mark Powell, is concerned for students’ mental health.

“There have been no reported COVID-19 related deaths in children under the age of 19 in San Diego County, but there have been several deaths in this age group by suicide, drug overdose and domestic violence.” said San Diego County Board of Education Member Mark Powell. “Newsom’s mandate failed to adequately address or prepare for negative effects the school closures would have on our children’s Mental Health….if mental health support resources are not made widely available to students through online technology, then parents should be given the choice to allow their children to return to on-campus instruction or continue their education through distance learning.”

Powell joined Good Morning San Diego to explain why he wants parents to have a choice to return to school campuses.