The bill aims to enhance youth mental health and well-being in Washington schools by increasing the availability of school social workers and improving workforce development. It highlights the alarming school refusal rates and mental health challenges faced by students, noting that Washington has a significantly lower ratio of school social workers compared to the national recommendation. The legislation intends to address these issues by promoting collaboration between educational service districts, local mental health agencies, and accredited university programs to facilitate in-school placements for social work candidates and licensed social worker associates.

Key amendments to existing laws include redefining the role of school social workers to emphasize their importance in providing mental health services, crisis intervention, and support for individualized education programs. The bill also mandates that educational service districts coordinate with local agencies to ensure effective supervision and placement of social work professionals in schools. Additionally, it outlines the responsibilities of educational service districts in supporting educator recruitment efforts, particularly in relation to the new provisions for social workers. Overall, the legislation seeks to create a more supportive and inclusive educational environment for students by enhancing mental health resources and workforce capacity in schools.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.410.044, 28A.320.280, 28A.310.235
Substitute Bill: 28A.410.044, 28A.320.280, 28A.310.235