This bill aims to enhance mental health education in Alaska's public school system by mandating the development of guidelines for instruction in mental health. The Board of Education and Early Development is tasked with creating these guidelines in consultation with various health departments and mental health organizations. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to ensure that local school boards notify parents at least two weeks prior to any mental health instruction being provided to their children.

Furthermore, the bill encourages school districts to implement health education programs for students from kindergarten through grade 12, which will now explicitly include mental health alongside other health topics. The state board is required to establish guidelines for developmentally appropriate mental health instruction and provide technical assistance to school districts. A report detailing the guidelines and the development process must be submitted to the legislature two years after the bill's enactment, ensuring accountability and progress in mental health education.

Statutes affected:
HB0105A, AM HB 105, introduced 02/14/2025: 14.03.016, 14.30.020, 14.30.360