Does North Dakota support mental health days for students?

BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — In recent times, the education system has experienced crises on many different ends — ranging from, according to the American Enterprise Institute, 26% of all public school attendees in the US were labeled “chronically absent” (missing at least 10% of the school year, or roughly 18 days of classes) in the last school year, a tremendous jump from the pre-pandemic rate of 15%. This leads some to wonder: what can be done to keep students in class?

In a comprehensive study by Test Prep Insight, 3,000 parents (including representatives from ND), parents were polled on whether or not they believe parents of absentee children should be fined, citing money as a major motivator for many. According to the results, 25% of North Dakotans support the idea of using financial penalties as a way to deter student absences, with an average suggested fine of $22 per day. The 44% who oppose this idea, meanwhile, say that it has the potential to be extremely unfair to parents from poorer backgrounds. The survey respondents continued to note that steps could be taken to help aid students outside of forcing another burden on their parents. 70% say that schools or authorities should provide extra support for those who may be struggling in classes, 20% suggest offering financial incentives for good attendance, and 10% say that additional communication with parents would be helpful.

It should be noted, however, that multiple causes can contribute to chronic absences among students, with mental health struggles serving as one of the most prevalent and frequently discussed. While exploring the issue of truancy, Test Prep Insight also asked their sample population about their feelings towards mental health absences.

Out of the surveyed parents, a fairly large percentage (73%) agree that children should be able to take mental health days. Unfortunately, despite interest in these programs, several obstacles make properly implementing them fairly difficult — the most common of which are unsupportive school policies (47%), social stigma (27%), and the fear of falling behind academically (26%). Luckily for those concerned about the last hurdle, the respondents also shared how they believe schools can support students who may need to take time to collect themselves: most notably through catch-up sessions (33%), regular check-ins from counselors (30%), flexible deadlines (25%), and providing assignments in advance (12%).

When asked about the changes they would like to see in handling childhood mental health issues, 39% of all surveyed parents called for better teacher training, 3% approved implementing mental health education in the school curriculum, 21% expressed an interest in improved communication between schools and parents, and 17% stated more on-site mental health professionals on-site.

Most also agreed these days should not be thrown around lightly, and that higher officials should be able to determine when mental health breaks are appropriate. 66% of parents say they should have the final say on whether or not a student can take one. An additional 17% believe the child’s therapist or physician is responsible for doing so, and 3% suggest that the school should decide.

To view the full study — including a detailed infographic showcasing how parents across the United States view the topic of being fined for absences — visit this page on TestPrepInsight.com.