Students and young people across America are facing unprecedented mental health challenges, especially in the wake of the pandemic. New guidance released by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) will assist school districts in planning for the implementation of universal mental health screenings in Illinois schools. The Universal Mental Health Screening: Non-Regulatory Guidance for School Districts provides school districts with information on implementation planning, legal and privacy considerations, family engagement, and follow-up supports as schools prepare for statewide screening requirements. Beginning with the 2027-28 school year, Public Act 104-0032 requires all school districts, unless approved for an extension by ISBE, to offer annual mental health screenings to students in grades 3 through 12. Parents will be notified when screenings are scheduled and can choose to decline the screening for their child. The full guidance is available on ISBE’s website, www.isbe.net