State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson has urged educators, parents, school board members and community leaders to support state legislation that will improve mental health services for students.

“Students need to have good mental health to succeed in the classroom and in life,” Torlakson said. “Schools can help by creating a caring and supportive environment and by working to help identify mental health problems early so students can receive the treatment they need.”

Torlakson mentioned bills he said will enhance mental health care in schools. SB 972, authored by Sen. Anthony Portantino (D-La Cañada Flintridge), would require all schools issuing student identification cards to include the telephone number of a suicide prevention hotline or crisis text line. SB 1019, authored by Sen. Jim Beall (D-San Jose), would require the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission to create a grant program for school district mental health partnerships.

AB 1436, by Assemblyman Mark Levine (D-San Rafael) will require those applying for a license as a marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker or professional clinical counselor to complete a minimum of six hours of coursework or applied experience in suicide risk assessment and intervention.

The bills will be considered before the Legislature adjourns on Aug. 31. If approved, Gov. Jerry Brown has 30 days to sign or veto legislation.