The research will examine the impact of policies that preempt instruction on racial justice and health equity in Iowa school districts. The project will:
Examine the association of mental health emergencies and prevalence among Iowa’s youth following the enactment of preemptive policies related to racism, sexism, and gender education and diversity and inclusion efforts.
Describe how Iowa school districts implement preemptive policies related to racism, sexism, and gender education and diversity and inclusion efforts.
Identify community partner assets and opportunities for the design and implementation of innovative approaches to support the mental health of minoritized youth.
Through a combination of legislative scans, school environment assessments, and mental health data analyses, this project will provide comprehensive insights into the intersection of policy and mental health equity.