🧭 NASW Core Values Reflected in the Bill

• Service: Prioritizes students in greatest need; supports vulnerable populations
• Social Justice: Promotes equity and cultural competence in screening tools and services
• Competence: Requires professional training and evidence-based practices
• Dignity and Worth of the Person: Protects privacy, offers opt-out choice, honors individuality
• Importance of Human Relationships: Encourages interagency and school-family collaboration

⚖️ Ethical Conflicts



• Student autonomy vs. protection
• Student may refuse screening despite parent support
• Or, parent refusal may prevent a willing student from accessing help
• Privacy vs. Parental Rights
• Students may not want to share details with caregivers
• Parents may demand access to private emotional health data



🧩 These raise challenges balancing dignity, self-determination, and the value of family systems.

📌 Prioritizing Values in Ethical Dilemmas

• Safety comes first
• If autonomy and protection clash, preventing harm takes precedence
• Emotional well-being may outweigh full parental transparency



This strategy allows students to get safe, confidential support when most needed, especially in high-risk or potentially harmful family dynamics.