§ 7–14A-05
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 7-14A-05 (2026)
Title 7. Public Schools
Subtitle 14A. Operation of Public Schools During a Prolonged State of Emergency -- Virtual Education Plans
§ 7–14A-05LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The school personnel at each school shall develop a school behavioral health plan to assist students who are struggling when the school is operating under a virtual education plan that includes:
(i)
Proper assignments for all behavioral and mental health staff;
(ii)
Methods for all students to access behavioral and mental health supports, including through telehealth if necessary;
(iii)
Procedures for referral of students who are struggling to access proper behavioral and mental health supports; and
(iv)
Increased attention and care for students struggling with the emotional, behavioral, or psychological stressors of virtual education.
(2)
In establishing a behavioral health plan under this subsection, a school may use a multitiered system of supports model.
(b)
(1)
(i)
While a school is operating under a virtual education plan, the principal shall require a staff member to conduct regular wellness check–ins with students at least once per week.
(ii)
The principal may assign a community school coordinator, staff member, or team of staff to conduct the wellness check–ins required under this subsection.
(2)
(i)
If a regular wellness check–in reveals that a student is struggling with the educational, emotional, behavioral, or psychological stressors of virtual education, the principal shall require a staff member, in accordance with subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, to:
(1)
Check in with the student multiple times per week; and
(2)
Develop an individual behavioral health plan consistent with the school behavioral health plan established under subsection (a) of this section.
(ii)
The principal shall arrange for a school psychologist, pupil personnel worker, school social worker, school counselor, or behavioral health specialist to perform the tasks required under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.