Early COVID-19 School Policies' Impact on Families and Youth Engagement in Virtual Learning and Telemental Health.

This article examines the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic–related shift to virtual schooling and telemental health services on students, families, school staff, and community members in two distinct U.S. school districts. Using focus groups with mental health program directors, school clinicians, parents, and community leaders, the study identified key themes influencing virtual service use, including family characteristics, communication, and structural factors such as technology access. Findings highlight challenges such as academic declines, difficulties in student engagement, and barriers to building rapport in virtual mental health sessions, alongside benefits like increased parental involvement and convenience. The study underscores the importance of fostering trust and communication between schools and families to improve policy transitions and service equity during crises.