Effective July 1, 2018 New York schools are required by law to provide instruction in mental health to all elementary, middle and high school students. Schools may already be providing "mental health" education as previously required in CR Part 135, however these new statutory provisions formalize the new requirements to:
- include mental health and the relation of physical and mental health and
- be designed to enhance student understanding, attitudes and behaviors that promote health, well being and human dignity.
A School Mental Health Resource and Training Center has been established by the Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. (MHANYS) to help schools comply with the new law.
The Center provides free online mental health training (CTLE-eligible) and instructional resources for educators, as well as mental health resources for parents and guardians, students and community-based mental health providers. The center is continually being updated with new resources and training opportunities. For more information about the center and to access resources please visit https://www.mentalhealthednys.org/.