# Education (GED)

## Title 7. Public Schools

### Subtitle 14A. Operation of Public Schools During a Prolonged State of Emergency -- Virtual Education Plans

#### Section 7-14A-05

(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.

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Md. Code Ann., Educ. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)