Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB590

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/31/23
• Refer: 10/31/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Training to address student mental health and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

If approved, AB590 would significantly influence current education laws by expanding the training obligations of the DPI under section 115.28 of the statutes. This bill also allocates an additional $500,000 for each of the upcoming two fiscal years (2023-24 and 2024-25) specifically for these training programs. With this financial backing, the intention is to facilitate implementation and ensure that schools can adequately prepare their staff to address mental health issues, thereby enhancing overall student welfare and educational outcomes.

Summary

Assembly Bill 590 aims to enhance training for addressing student mental health within Wisconsin's educational system. This bill mandates the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to provide trainings to school districts and independent charter schools on an additional evidence-based strategy focused on social and emotional learning, supplementing existing trainings on screening and referral to treatment, as well as trauma-sensitive approaches. The inclusion of social and emotional learning is intended to better equip educators with the tools necessary to support students’ mental health effectively.

Contention

Although the bill seems to have a clear focus on improving student mental health, potential points of contention may arise concerning the allocation of funds and the prioritization of mental health training over other educational needs. Discussions surrounding similar bills often include debates over whether funding should be entirely directed toward mental health initiatives or balanced with other pressing educational requirements. Additionally, while many support the integration of social and emotional learning, some stakeholders might question the effectiveness of such programs and argue for alternative methods of addressing student needs.