It’s August, which means the school year is not far off. So let’s conclude our summary of the major features of SB 11, the school safety bill.

1. Each district must adopt and implement a policy requiring the integration of trauma-informed practices in the school environment.  This will include mandatory training for educators.

Look for model policies from TASB.

2. TEA, in conjunction with several other state agencies, will develop a rubric for use by ESCs to identify resources related to student mental health in the region.  The Agency will develop a statewide plan “to ensure all students have access to adequate mental health resources.”

ESCs are given a major part to play with SB 11, particularly in the area of student mental health. 

3. The bill creates The Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium, comprised of “health related institutions of higher education” representing Baylor, Texas A&M, University of North Texas and the University of Texas.

DAWG BONE:  LET’S REMEMBER THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR IN MAKING YOUR SCHOOL A SAFE PLACE: CARING AND DILIGENT EDUCATORS.

Look for more Dawg Bones next week!