New Jersey Senate Bill S945

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires school psychologists and school counselors to complete mental health first aid training.

Summary

Senate Bill S945 mandates that school psychologists and school counselors in New Jersey must complete a mental health first aid training course approved by the Department of Education within their first year of employment. This requirement applies to all current and future school psychologists and counselors, ensuring they are equipped to recognize and respond to mental health issues in students. The bill emphasizes the importance of staying updated in mental health training, requiring these professionals to complete the training at least once every three years to maintain their qualifications and effectiveness in the field. The approved training course must cover critical topics such as identifying the signs of mental health illnesses and substance use disorders, understanding risk factors, learning intervention strategies for both crisis and non-crisis situations, as well as providing an overview of various mental health conditions prevalent among children, including anxiety and mood disorders. The training course will consist of a minimum of eight hours and will be subject to review and updates at least every three years to reflect the latest understanding of mental health issues. This legislative measure is part of a broader strategy to address growing concerns around mental health in youth, particularly in light of recent trends indicating an increase in mental health challenges among school-aged children. By ensuring that school psychologists and counselors receive this specialized training, the bill seeks to create a supportive environment that fosters early intervention and helps mitigate the impact of mental health issues on academic performance and overall well-being. Notably, S945 may encounter some contention related to its implementation costs and the logistical challenges of training enforcement. Critics might argue that the mandatory training could place a burden on school resources, particularly in districts already facing staffing shortages or budget constraints. However, proponents believe that investing in mental health education for school personnel is essential for nurturing a healthier, more responsive school environment, ultimately benefiting students in need of support.