New Haven Students Push District on Mental Health, Technology, and AI Policy Clarity
New Haven high school students told the Board of Education on Monday that the district needs better mental health support, working technology, and a clear artificial intelligence policy-but acknowledged that funding constraints limit what the district can accomplish.
Abdellah Aly, a student representative to the board, presented feedback from student government leaders gathered across the district. The students reported feeling burned out from balancing academics, activities, and family responsibilities.
Mental Health Support Falls Short
Students identified mental health access as a primary concern, saying it directly affects their academic performance, motivation, and attendance. They recommended increasing the number of counselors and social workers in schools.
At Hill Regional Career Magnet School, three counselors serve over 750 students. Aly said the ratio means counselors cannot give adequate attention to individual students.
"One can't focus on every student, and because of that, they don't have much time and they have to rush through everything," Aly said. "The student isn't basically feeling welcomed in a way."
While students acknowledged the district lacks funding to hire additional staff, Aly called the situation unfair.
Technology Needs Improvement
Students reported that Chromebooks provided by the district malfunction frequently, forcing some to bring their own devices to school. Aly said the aging technology limits student access to tools needed for coursework.
AI Policy Requires Clarification
Students expressed confusion about how they can use artificial intelligence in their classes. Some teachers prohibit AI use entirely, while others allow limited use, creating inconsistency across the district.
According to the district's spokesperson, teachers have the authority to set their own AI policies for individual assignments. Students want the district to establish clear guidelines on when and how AI can be used in coursework.
"Students would like the district to spell out how to use it, how to not use it, when to use it, when to not," Aly said.
For more information on implementing AI policies in education, see our AI for Education resources and the AI Learning Path for Teachers.
Board Signals Need for Better Communication
Board of Education President OrLando Yarborough said the district should practice "over-communication" about existing resources and opportunities. He noted that increasing awareness requires modest investment compared to hiring additional staff.
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