An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, in terms and courses of study, providing for student mental health supports.

Source of recordPennsylvania · palegis.usLast synced Sep 4, 2026

Chamber

House

Progress

Where this bill stands in the legislative process.

Introduced
Passed House
Passed Senate
To Governor
Became Law

Overview

This bill aims to improve student mental health support in Pennsylvania’s public schools. It requires each school entity to develop and implement a comprehensive student mental health support policy, inform staff and parents about the policy, and provide training to educators on these supports. The Department of Education will create a model policy and resources to assist schools in meeting these requirements.

Key provisions

Schools must adopt a student mental health support policy.
Educators in grades six through twelve must receive four hours of training in student mental health support every five years.
The Department of Education will develop a model student mental health support policy and curriculum.
Schools must include guidelines for student mental health supports, referral protocols, and intervention methods in their policies.
The bill addresses students who have experienced trauma or loss, requiring tailored support.
Definitions are provided for key terms such as ‘Department,’ ‘Nonpublic school,’ ‘Professional educator,’ and ‘School entity.’
The policy must be accessible on the school’s website.
Training can satisfy continuing professional education requirements.