Rep. Clark Introduces Bill to Establish Positive School Climates

Several federal lawmakers have banded together to introduce into a legislation an act that would “promote positive and trauma informed learning environments,” which would help to reduce suspensions and other disciplinary actions.

Congresswoman Katherine Clark, D-Mass, joined Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., Congressman Danny Davis, D-Ill., and Congressman Bobby Scott, D-VA, to introduce the Supportive School Climate Act of 2015.

It is hoped that the bill would give all students, particularly those who face abusive situations, a chance to form more positive and trusting relationships with adults in the school environment.

“Severe school policies often cut off our most vulnerable students’ path to success,” said Clark in a press release. “The Supportive School Climate Act proactively invests in behavioral health resources for students and teachers, forms local community partnerships, develops trauma informed supports, and gives vulnerable students the resources they need to graduate and pursue college or work.”

The premise behind the act argues that students are too often suspended or expelled for offenses that may have been considered minor in the past.

“These zero-tolerance policies have disproportionately targeted poor and minority students, particularly those with a history of abuse and neglect, or students with disabilities, and have been proven to further stigmatize children, enlarge achievement gaps, and increase rates of school drop-outs and recidivism,” stated a press release announcing the legislation.

The Supportive School Climate Act would allow states to use federal education funds for positive behavioral interventions and support in exchange for supporting initiatives that include discipline policies that align with civil rights laws, coordinating efforts with local education agencies and strengthening relations between schools and correctional facilities.