Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB1593

Introduced
2/1/21  
Refer
2/2/21  
Report Pass
2/18/21  
Engrossed
3/2/21  
Refer
3/15/21  
Report Pass
3/30/21  
Refer
3/30/21  
Report Pass
4/7/21  
Enrolled
4/15/21  

Caption

Schools; professional development; requiring digital teaching and learning standards program for teachers; mental health training; workplace safety training; alcohol and drug abuse training; effective date.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly impact state education laws by introducing mandatory training programs for teachers in several crucial areas. Specifically, it will require local school boards to implement training concerning mental health needs, drug and alcohol abuse, and workplace safety, thereby enhancing the overall skill set of educators and potentially improving student outcomes in these areas. By mandating these training programs, the bill aims to create a more holistic educational approach that acknowledges the broader role of teachers in student well-being.

Summary

House Bill 1593 focuses on enhancing professional development standards for teachers in Oklahoma, particularly in relation to digital teaching, mental health needs of students, and workplace safety. The bill amends existing statutes to require that teachers undergo training in recognizing and addressing mental health issues, as well as a structured approach to substance abuse education. The inclusion of digital teaching standards emphasizes the state's commitment to preparing educators to effectively engage with students in a technologically advancing educational environment.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1593 is generally positive, with a strong focus on the need for ongoing teacher education to better serve and support students. Legislators and education advocates argue that this bill addresses pressing issues such as mental health and substance abuse, which have profound effects on student learning and safety. However, there may be concerns regarding the funding and resources required to implement the expanded training programs, alongside possible debates on the logistics of integrating these reforms into existing educational frameworks.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention related to HB 1593 include discussions about the effectiveness and feasibility of implementing mandatory training programs across district lines. Some critics might argue that additional requirements could overburden teachers and distract from core educational goals. Additionally, there may be debates around the specifics of mental health training and whether teachers are adequately equipped to handle the complexities of student mental health issues. The requirement for ongoing professional development could also raise questions about the resources available to ensure all teachers receive necessary training.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB1886

Schools; professional development programs; requiring mental health training; effective date.

OK HB1441

Schools; modifying frequency of various required professional development for teachers; effective date; emergency.

OK HB1441

Schools; modifying frequency of various required professional development for teachers; effective date; emergency.

OK HB2749

Schools; requiring certain school districts to provide certain professional development and training.

OK SB175

Schools; suicide awareness and drug abuse policies; requiring training be provided at minimum frequency. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB886

Law enforcement training; requiring certain training. Effective date.

OK SB811

Law enforcement training; requiring certain crisis intervention training. Effective date.

OK SB346

Law enforcement training; requiring certain training; providing for certain training; requiring participation in certain training. Effective date.

OK SB346

Law enforcement training; requiring certain training; providing for certain training; requiring participation in certain training. Effective date.

OK SB379

Law enforcement mental health wellness; requiring certain training. Effective date.

Similar Bills

AR SB425

To Amend Various Provisions Of The Arkansas Code Concerning Enhanced Transportation; And To Declare An Emergency.

KY SB3

AN ACT relating to redistricting and declaring an emergency.

AR HB1238

To Amend Various Provisions Of The Arkansas Code Concerning Enhanced Transportation Funding Amounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

NH HB50

Apportioning state representative districts.

KY SB2

AN ACT relating to redistricting and declaring an emergency.

KY HB2

AN ACT relating to redistricting and declaring an emergency.

CA AB1719

Housing: Community College Faculty and Employee Housing Act of 2022.

MS HB1311

Seventh Circuit Court District; revise number of assistant district attorneys and criminal investigators.