This letter is a follow-up to the March 1 Butler Eagle editorial entitled “Taking on the Mental Health Challenges of our Students.” At first glance, this legislation, which “would allow Pennsylvania students … to take up to three mental health days … without a doctor’s note … ” (Feb. 29, page 1) to help students manage stress seems to be a good idea to help students deal with mental health challenges. The proposed legislation raises interesting questions and concerns:

· Will the student determine what is a legitimate mental health crisis? Will all ages of children be able to discern if mental health is the issue or if it is merely test-related stress? Are very young students able to make these determinations?

· If the mental health disorder or stress is caused by problems at home, why would three days absence be the best approach to help students? (The school culture — teachers, counselors, friends, etc. could provide a refuge.)

· Could the challenges of making up three days of school worsen mental health stressors?

· If academics cause students so much stress, wouldn’t it be wiser to structure instruction to the levels and interests of students rather than to the pace of state-required testing programs?

· Absenteeism is already problematic. Wouldn’t this proposal increase absenteeism and negatively affect student achievement?

· Is there any significant evidence from long-term research that supports this proposal?

· In conclusion, will it help students learn to overcome stressful situations or will it build a habit of avoidance?

John H. Stephens, Ph.D., Slippery Rock, former teacher, administrator and retired professor of education