The bill, S.B. No. 1683, amends Section 21.451(d) of the Education Code to enhance staff development requirements for public school educators in Texas. The amendments include the addition of training in de-escalation techniques, classroom management, district discipline policies, and the student code of conduct. Furthermore, the bill specifies that training must be evidence-based and includes instruction related to students with disabilities, specifically those with autism and other intellectual or mental health conditions.
Additionally, the bill mandates that staff development must cover suicide prevention, strategies for fostering positive relationships among students, and measures for addressing bullying. The changes aim to equip educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to support a diverse student population effectively. The provisions of this Act will take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Education Code 21.451 (Education Code 21)