March 23rd, 2023 by WCBC Radio

The Allegany County Board of Education has released a statement responding to recent criticism of the board’s decision to no longer excuse some students receiving outside mental health therapy. In February, the Public School system sent a letter to parents notifying them that if they have students who receive outside treatment- they will not be excused unless the agency they are using is in compliance with all state and county regulations.  The statement details the requirements of both the local school system and the Maryland Department of Education when it comes to outside therapy. Those requirements include that the sessions not materially interfere with the child’s education; as well as outlining transportation guidelines. Allegany County School Board President Robert Ferrell tells WCBC News that the letter sent out was the result of one private health agency that has not been abiding by the guidelines in the areas of scheduling and transportation…