Resources Supporting SB 1376 – Schools; Curriculum; Mental Health

Senate Bill 1376 was signed into law in July of 2021 and became effective September 29, 2021. It amends ARS 15-701.02 by requiring Health Education instruction to include mental health instruction.

The new law includes the following:

• Requires the State Board of Education (SBE) to mandate that all health education instruction include mental health instruction. Mental health instruction may be included in a health education course or another existing course.

• Specifies that mental health instruction must incorporate the multiple dimensions of health.

• Directs SBE to consult with mental health experts, mental health advocacy organizations, and the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) when adopting this requirement.

In support of this law, ADE created the SB1376 Guidance Resource document, which includes definitions, recommendations, and resources to support Arizona schools.