87R11512 MLH-D
By: Talarico H.B. No. 4111
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the employment of diversity, equity, and inclusion
officers by school districts.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter Z, Chapter 22, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 22.903 to read as follows:
Sec. 22.903. DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION OFFICERS.
(a) This section applies to a school district other than a district
entitled to an allotment under Section 48.101.
(b) Each school district to which this section applies must
employ a diversity, equity, and inclusion officer. An individual
hired as a district's diversity, equity, and inclusion officer
must:
(1) have significant professional experience in
diversity, equity, and inclusion, including demonstrated
experience working with:
(A) students of limited English proficiency;
(B) students enrolled in special education
programs; and
(C) families of students described by Paragraph
(A) or (B); or
(2) hold an approved certification in diversity,
equity, or inclusion.
(c) A school district's diversity, equity, and inclusion
officer shall:
(1) lead the district's efforts to establish and
sustain a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion for all
students by addressing systemic inequities that lead to differences
in student achievement;
(2) support continuing education and training related
to diversity, equity, or inclusion;
(3) develop district policies, practices, and
programs that champion the individual cultures, talents,
abilities, languages, and interests of each student; and
(4) ensure that each student receives the necessary
opportunities and resources to meet the student's unique needs,
abilities, and aspirations.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2021.