Alabama school systems must now obtain written permission from parents to allow students under 14 to participate in school-based mental health services. While Albertville City Schools have historically followed the practice of obtaining permission in writing from parents to receive continuing counseling and/or mental health services, we must now have a specific document of “ Opt-In" signed by parents. Information will go home with students in grades K-8 on Monday, August 22. Parents may opt out to opt out of the services listed on the subscription form.. Please note: Ticking the box and signing the form does NOT mean your child WILL RECEIVE these services; it means we can provide those services, if necessary. If it is determined that a student needs mental health service listed on the form, the school counselor or another staff member will communicate with parents. Specific information about the purpose and duration of the service to the father will be provided, and the father will sign additional documents that will give specific permission. Once again, this does not substantially change our procedures from previous school years. We always want parents to be aware of how their students are doing at school and the ways the school and parents can work together to help students reach their full potential. Students will continue to receive classroom orientation lessons, crisis intervention, and occasional visits from counselors as needed, regardless of enrollment status. Ask any questions to your child’s school counselor or Kristi Rains, Coordinator of Mental Health and Counseling Services, 256-891-1183 ext 226 or krains@albertk12. org.