AK HB181

Removes the word "physical" from health education requirements and adds mental health as a specific instructional component for kindergarten through grade 12 in Alaska public schools.

Requires the State Board of Education and Early Development to establish guidelines for mental health instruction in consultation with the Department of Health and Social Services and representatives of national and state mental health organizations.

Mandates development of health guidelines with standards for mental health instruction, alongside existing personal safety guidelines addressing domestic violence and sexual assault.

Establishes a school health education specialist position to be funded in the Department of Education and Early Development to coordinate the health and personal safety program statewide.

Directs the Board of Education and Early Development to develop the required mental health guidelines within two years after the act's effective date, with consultation from specified mental health organizations including Providence Health and Services Alaska, Southcentral Foundation, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness Alaska.