Connecticut House Bill HB06782

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/17
• Refer: 1/25/17

Caption

An Act Permitting Boards Of Education To Select Which School Personnel Shall Complete Professional Development And In-service Training Relating To The Restraint And Seclusion Of Students.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6782 would significantly alter the existing requirements for professional development in the context of student restraint and seclusion. By granting local education boards the authority to select the training participants, the bill acknowledges the different roles and responsibilities within school staff, thereby allowing schools to tailor their training programs to better suit their specific needs. This could lead to more efficient use of resources and ensure that the personnel most likely to encounter restraint and seclusion situations are adequately trained.

Summary

House Bill 6782 proposes amendments to the statutes concerning the training of school personnel on the restraint and seclusion of students. Specifically, the bill permits local and regional boards of education to decide which staff members are required to undergo such professional development and in-service training. This change aims to provide more flexibility for educational boards in determining appropriate personnel for this critical training, rather than mandating that all school staff complete it, which has been a source of contention among educational stakeholders.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill has faced scrutiny and debate among legislators and education professionals. Some argue that limiting training to specific personnel could lead to gaps in understanding and preparedness among staff, especially in crisis situations where multiple staff members may be involved. Critics express concern that the bill could downplay the importance of universal training, particularly in ensuring student safety and fostering an informed school environment. Proponents, however, contend that it empowers local boards and makes training more focused and relevant.