SB86 Summary

• State Department of Education must develop a comprehensive program addressing mental health of "Tier II students" (K-12 students at-risk for inadequate social-behavioral skills such as ADHD or anger management issues) through professional development training, one-on-one consultations, and curricula development.

• Department shall create a safe and supportive schools framework providing guidance to school districts for fostering positive learning environments, with each school developing action plans that include strategies, timelines, and measurable outcome goals.

• Beginning in 2022-2023 school year, each local board of education must employ a mental health service coordinator meeting specified qualifications (bachelor's in social work, school counselor, school nurse, or mental health professional) and earning a school-based mental health certificate within one year.

• Each local board of education must complete and submit a mental health needs assessment and resource map to the Alabama Department of Mental Health by the last day of fiscal year 2022 and as requested thereafter.

• State Board of Education and Alabama Department of Mental Health shall adopt necessary rules and policies to implement the act, with effectiveness beginning the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.