The bill amends Section 16-53.1-2 of the Rhode Island School Improvement Team Act to require the establishment of a districtwide Student Safety and Behavioral Health Committee (SSBHC) by school boards or committees in cities and towns. The SSBHC must include representation from administration (appointed by the superintendent), at least two certified staff (appointed by the local collective bargaining agent), and at least two support staff (also appointed by the local collective bargaining agent). The committee may also include a school resource officer appointed by the superintendent and should strive for representation from elementary, middle, and high school levels.

The SSBHC is tasked with ensuring that the district has a comprehensive policy to provide mental health support to students in need and to address student behaviors in a non-punitive manner, in line with best practices and student needs. The committee is responsible for ensuring the proper implementation of such policies, assessing available mental health supports, discussing possible improvements to policies and procedures, making recommendations to the school board or school committee regarding potential policy changes, and providing an annual report on student safety, mental health, and behaviors, including recommendations to improve student safety and outcomes.

Additionally, the SSBHC is required to work with school improvement teams to enhance student safety and behavioral outcomes at the school building level while ensuring confidentiality regarding personally identifiable student information. The bill takes effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
235: 16-53.1-2
235  SUB A: 16-53.1-2