Bill > HB1706

This bill aims to enhance student mental health awareness in Pennsylvania schools by requiring several key actions. The State Board of Education must review and update health education standards to include mental health awareness. The Departments of Health and Education are mandated to develop and publish online guidelines about mental health warning signs for students, parents, and coaches, potentially using existing mental health organization materials. Schools must notify students, parents, guardians, athletic staff, and extracurricular advisors twice per school year about available mental health services and how to access them. If a student is injured or stops attending a school-sponsored activity, the school's student assistance program must provide mental health service information to the student's parents or guardians. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association must revise coaching education requirements to include student mental health awareness starting in the 2025-2026 school year, with training that can count toward professional education credits. The bill defines "school entity" broadly to include school districts, charter schools, cyber charter schools, intermediate units, and area career and technical schools, and aims to create a more comprehensive approach to recognizing and addressing student mental health needs across educational settings.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1706