Students and parents are pushing to bring more mental health services to Killingly High School.

They say it’s really necessary, but not everyone is in favor.

Families gathered and held up signs, including one that read, “Student Mental Health Matters.”

“I think it’s just important that people have someone to talk to or even have someone available if they need to talk,” Killingly’s Lily Hubert said.

“We just want the best for our kids,” said Randi Long of Killingly.

The group made their voices heard before and during a meeting of the Killingly Board of Education on Wednesday.

They are lobbying for the school board to allow Generations Family Health Center to begin offering mental health services in high school.

“We really need it in our school. There are a lot of problems at Killingly, and it would be really beneficial for all the students,” said Jessica Long of Killingly.

The district wouldn’t have to pay for it.

At the meeting, a few people spoke in opposition, questioning its necessity and place in a school setting.

“I think this is unwarranted government intervention. This is where they are dividing parents and students,” said Dale Dauphinais of Killingly.

“Personally, I’m afraid this will end up on the taxpayer,” Michelle Murphy of Killingly said.

The district said requests for mental health assistance to 2-1-1 increased by 10%. More and more students are visiting the school nurse for anxiety and depression.

The board of directors of the ed. president sent a message to those who came out.

“I just want you to know that we hear you and we appreciate and understand you, some of us more than others,” said Janice Joly, chair of the Killingly Board of Education.

The board had wanted more information about the program and they received it at the end of their meeting on Wednesday. The superintendent has suggested a vote could take place later this month.