Establishes pilot program to create student mental health assistance programs in selected school districts.
Impact
The bill mandates that participating school districts establish a comprehensive mental health assistance framework which includes identifying at-risk students and providing resources such as counseling and educational support. Each district will appoint student assistance counselors to facilitate these programs and serve as a liaison to community resources. The anticipated outcome is an enhanced awareness of mental health issues and improved student outcomes in terms of academic achievements, attendance, and psychological well-being.
Summary
Senate Bill 2776, introduced in New Jersey, establishes a four-year pilot program aimed at creating mental health assistance programs within selected school districts for students in grades K-12. The primary objectives of the program include identifying mental health issues that may affect academic performance and providing intervention, support, and referral services confidentially. This initiative will allow students experiencing mental health difficulties to receive appropriate support while promoting a safe and positive educational environment.
Contention
The implementation of SB 2776 may raise discussions regarding the allocation of resources among school districts and the overall effectiveness of such mental health initiatives. Opponents may question the adequacy of funding and support after the pilot program while supporters emphasize the urgent need for mental health services in schools. The bill requires participating districts to report their findings at the end of the pilot program, which will include assessments of effectiveness and suggestions for future expansions, ensuring transparency in its evaluation.
Establishing the school district mental health intervention team program in statute to provide coordinated mental health services for students among school districts and community mental health centers.
Relating to consideration of the mental health of public school students in training requirements for certain school employees, curriculum requirements, counseling programs, educational programs, state and regional programs and services, and health care services for students and to mental health first aid program training and reporting regarding local mental health authority and school district personnel.
Relating to consideration of the mental health of public school students in training requirements for certain school employees, curriculum requirements, counseling programs, educational programs, state and regional programs and services, and health care services for students and to mental health first aid program training and reporting regarding local mental health authority and school district personnel.
Relating to consideration of the mental health of public school students in training requirements for certain school employees, curriculum requirements, counseling programs, educational programs, state and regional programs and services, and health care services for students and to mental health first aid program training and reporting regarding local mental health authority and school district personnel.
Establishes student-athlete mental health specialists in school districts and public institutions of higher education; creates student-athlete mental health registry; makes appropriation.
Establishes student-athlete mental health specialists in school districts and public institutions of higher education; creates student-athlete mental health registry; makes appropriation.
Relating to policies, procedures, and measures for school safety and mental health promotion in public schools and the creation of the Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium.
Relating to public school safety measures, access to mental health professionals in public schools and during certain emergencies, access to criminal history and mental health records, and access to firearms; requiring a certificate for employment as a school behavioral counselor; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.