New proposed bill in TN could log early mental health “warning signs” in students

A new bill in Tennessee sponsored by Sen. Bill Powers of Clarksville would require school districts and public charter schools to implement a computer system teachers and staff would use to log data on “early warning signs” exhibited in students related to their health, safety and behavior. The bill would require school staff to notify the district’s Threat Assessment Team each time an early warning sign is entered into the system. That team would determine how the school should respond and address the situation. Every year, districts would be required to send a report to the state about incidents, without identifying students. The bill still needs a sponsor in the House. The Tennessee General Assembly will reconvene for the legislative session on January 13.