Modesto, California – A proposed update to Modesto City Schools’ mental health services policy has sparked strong reactions from parents, many of whom raised concerns about when and how families would be notified if students access counseling on campus. The debate unfolded during a recent school board meeting as trustees reviewed the policy during its first reading.
The proposed changes focus on aligning district practices with current California law, but critics say the language could reduce parental involvement in sensitive mental health decisions affecting minors.
Incident Overview
The updated policy outlines how Modesto City Schools provides mental health education, training, and on-campus services for students. One of the most controversial provisions allows students aged 12 and older to consent to certain mental health counseling services without parental consent under specific conditions.
According to the proposal, a licensed mental health professional must determine that the student is mature enough to consent and that involving a parent or guardian would be inappropriate in that situation.
Timeline of Events
The policy was presented as a…