Students have a number of existing and emerging physical and mental health needs that require specific approaches, and schools play a key role in supporting student wellbeing. Health and wellness has been at the top-of-mind in governors’ State of the State addresses and has seen a lot of activity in our legislative tracking the last several years.
Given the importance, state policymakers are adapting comprehensive health supports to provide a well-rounded foundation of support in health education, mental and behavioral health, and nutrition services.
This Policy Snapshot reviews trends in recent legislation and in governor’s State of the State addresses from 2022 to 2025 and highlights examples of enacted policy related to K-12 student health and wellness as a reference for state leaders interested in taking similar action.
Find more information and legislative examples on:
- Physical health.
- Mental and behavioral health.
- Nutrition.
- Health professionals.
- An emerging trend in the space.
To learn more, check out our related resources:
