Albertville City School District

School systems across Alabama are now required to obtain written parent permission to allow students under the age of 14 to participate in school-based mental health services. While Albertville City Schools has historically followed the practice of obtaining written parent permission for ongoing counseling and/or mental health services, we now must have a specific "Opt-In" document signed by parents. The information will go home with students in grades K-8 with orientation & beginning-of-the-year paperwork. Parents can choose to opt-in to the services listed on the Opt-In form. Please note: checking the box and signing the form does NOT mean that your child WILL receive those services; it means that we can provide those services, if needed. If a student is determined to need a mental health service listed on the form, parents will be contacted by the school counselor or other staff member. Specific information about the purpose and length of service will be provided to the parent, and the parent will sign additional paperwork giving specific permission. We always want parents to be aware of how their student is doing in school and of ways in which the school and parents can work together to help students reach their full potential. Students will continue to receive classroom guidance lessons, crisis intervention, and occasional as-needed counselor visits, regardless of opt-in status. Please direct any questions to your child's school counselor or Kristi Rains, Counseling & Mental Health Services Coordinator, 256-891-1183 ext 226 or krains@albertk12.org.