MA Congresswoman Clark files Trauma-Informed Schools Act of 2019 to amend ESEA

Massachusetts Congresswoman Katherine Clark, along with Congressmen Mike Quigley (D-IL) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), recently introduced the Trauma-Informed Schools Act of 2019.

If enacted, this legislation would for the first time, define “trauma-informed practices” in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to include professional development; trauma-informed programs, supports and services; positive approaches to discipline that address underlying causes of behavior, including trauma; and a planning process to help all students feel safe and connected to the school community and promote a school-wide culture of acceptance.  The legislation would also require state plans to include ways local education agencies will support efforts to increase the prevalence of trauma-informed practices, as well as require that a description of how the State education agency will use its funds to increase trauma-informed practices.

To read Congresswoman Clark’s press release, including a list of over 50 endorsing organizations, please click here.

To read the full text of the legislation, please click here.

Comments are closed.