NJ S853

Directs the Commissioner of Education to establish a two-year Mental Health Awareness Pilot Program targeting mental health issues among middle and high school students

Six school districts will be selected to participate, representing northern, central, and southern regions of New Jersey with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas

Participating districts must identify and implement innovative methods to increase mental health awareness and provide students with coping skills for managing life stressors

Applications must include data on student enrollment, absenteeism rates, academic performance indicators, free/reduced lunch eligibility, and current mental health staffing and services

Commissioner must submit a report to the Governor and Legislature after two years with implementation findings and recommendations on continuing or expanding the program