The bill aims to enhance student well-being by promoting instruction in social-emotional skills across public schools in Washington. It recognizes the ongoing youth mental health crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizes the importance of teaching students coping mechanisms, emotional navigation, and relationship-building skills. The legislation encourages all school districts to adopt research-based curricula that align with social-emotional learning standards established by the office of the superintendent of public instruction. Additionally, it seeks to provide funding to schools, particularly those in high-poverty areas or identified as high-risk, to support the implementation of these programs.

Key provisions include the establishment of new sections in chapters 28A.320 and 28A.630 RCW, which outline the encouragement for schools to provide social-emotional learning instruction and the distribution of funding for this purpose. The bill also amends RCW 28A.300.288 to enhance collaboration with state agency partners in youth suicide prevention efforts. Furthermore, it stipulates that if specific funding for the act is not provided by June 30, 2024, the act will become null and void. Overall, the legislation aims to create a supportive educational environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being for students.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.300.288
Substitute Bill: 28A.300.288
Second Substitute: 28A.300.288