Carolyn D. Gorman, a policy analyst at the Manhattan Institute, has publicly called for states to prohibit universal school mental health screening, asserting that such programs are ineffective and potentially harmful. Her statement comes as at least one-third of school districts nationwide have already implemented these screenings. Gorman argues that despite their widespread adoption, universal screenings do not improve clinical or academic outcomes for students.
"States that do not mandate universal school mental health screening are not in the clear. At least one-third of districts nationwide are already doing this. States must PROHIBIT universal school mental health screening," Gorman stated in a recent tweet.
Gorman's analysis, detailed in a Manhattan Institute issue brief, highlights concerns over high rates of false positives, which can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary interventions. She emphasizes that school settings often lack the clinical safeguards and expertise necessary for accurate mental health assessments and follow-up care. The policy analyst also points to potential infringements on parental rights, noting that federal laws like the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) require parental consent for certain screenings.
The landscape of school mental health screening varies significantly across states. Illinois, for instance, became the first state to mandate universal screening for students in grades 3-12 starting in the 2027-28 school year, though parents retain opt-out rights. Conversely, Colorado repealed its optional screening program in 2025 due to concerns about parental rights, while Utah and Florida have moved to impose greater limitations and require prior parental consent for such assessments.
Gorman contends that resources allocated to universal screenings could be better spent on academic instruction or targeted interventions for students with identified needs. She advocates for robust parental consent requirements and increased transparency for any individual or targeted screenings that do occur within schools. Her recommendations include ensuring parents are fully informed about the nature and purpose of screenings, the credentials of administering professionals, and potential follow-up services.
