Authorizes excusal from attendance at an elementary or secondary school if the child is unable to attend due to mental or behavioral health concerns
If enacted, SB761 would repeal and replace the current provisions under section 167.031, updating the requirements for compulsory school attendance. The bill's introduction of a clear exemption for mental health issues aims to acknowledge the growing recognition of mental health in education policies, thereby potentially reducing the number of students who may be penalized due to non-attendance linked to such concerns. The changes would likely affect how schools and districts manage student attendance records and excuse absences related to health concerns.
Senate Bill 761 proposes changes to Missouri's existing laws regarding compulsory school attendance for children aged seven years until the compulsory attendance age for their district. The bill mandates that parents, guardians, or individuals responsible for a child's care must enroll the child in an approved academic program. Notably, it establishes specific provisions for excusing a child from attendance due to mental or behavioral health concerns, provided that appropriate documentation from a licensed mental health professional is submitted.,
Despite its supportive intent, SB761 has sparked discussions regarding how mental health issues are assessed and documented, potentially leading to debates on privacy and the adequacy of mental health resources available for families. Some may argue that the requirements to produce documentation could place an additional burden on families and could be a barrier for those who may not have easy access to mental health professionals. There is also concern about the operational challenges schools might face in implementing these new provisions effectively.