This bill establishes a four-year pilot program aimed at creating mental health assistance programs in selected school districts for students in grades kindergarten through 12. The program's objectives include identifying mental health issues affecting students and their academic performance, as well as providing intervention, support, and referral services in a confidential environment. Participating school districts will be required to develop a mental health assistance program that includes identifying students facing personal, school, or family difficulties, establishing referral procedures, ensuring voluntary participation and confidentiality, and providing mental health education and support services. Each district must appoint student assistance counselors or contract with third-party mental health care providers to facilitate the program.

To participate, school districts must submit an application to the Commissioner of Education, who will select up to 15 districts from various regions and demographics. At the end of the pilot program, each district is required to report on the number of students served, staff involved, and feedback from the school community. The Commissioner will then compile these reports and provide an assessment of the program's effectiveness to the Governor and the Legislature, along with recommendations for potential continuation and expansion to additional districts.