HB22-1376 (Herod & Young/ Priola & Winter) Supportive Learning Environments for K-12 Students
Summary
This bill updates Colorado’s policies, practices and data frameworks to better measure and support positive school climates. It requires the Department of Education to gather data and create accessible, annually updated reports with consistent data concerning chronic absenteeism rates, suspensions, expulsions, and the number of students handcuffed or restrained, among other indicators of school climate. It also updates restraint and seclusion policies and limits practices that have been shown to harm students, such as handcuffing. The bill requires the development of a model policy to promote best practices and proper training for school security staff.
Position
The Children’s Campaign supports this bill because it is a comprehensive step towards ensuring that every student receives targeted support and learns in a positive, safe, inclusive environment. Research has proven that students are more successful when they feel safe, connected, and have a sense of belonging at school. However, indicators of student success are often centered around academic achievement, overlooking the importance of school climate in contributing to positive student outcomes. This bill will ensure transparency and accountability in school districts’ responsibility toward creating supportive school climates.
Current Status
The bill passed Senate 3rd reading with a vote of 23-12, and passed its concurrence vote in the House 43-22. It now heads to the governor for his signature.
Previous Statuses
May 8, 2022
The bill passed unanimously out of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Our Vice President of Education Initiatives, Leslie Colwell, testified in support. It then passed out of the Senate Finance Committee on a 3-2 vote. It now heads to Appropriations.
April 22, 2022
The bill passed out of the House Education Committee on a vote of 6-3. Our Vice President of Education Initiatives, Leslie Colwell, testified in support. It now heads to Appropriations.
