HI SB388

Requires the Department of Education to establish a task force to create a system for evaluating and assessing children exhibiting emergent or persistent behaviors, academic challenges, or chronic absenteeism who need supports and interventions through a multi-tiered system of supports.

Task force membership includes the superintendent of education (chairperson), directors of health and human services, school principals, and representatives from the office of student support services, plus designated community organizations including Kinai 'Eha, Kamehameha Schools, Queen Liliuokalani Trust, and other youth-focused entities.

Task force shall meet at least four times per year with initial meeting by September 12, 2019, and shall review best practices, evidence-based strategies, and assessments for identifying students experiencing trauma.

Task force shall establish a seventh and ninth grade pilot program using adverse childhood experiences assessment in a selected complex area, collect and analyze data, and make recommendations for statewide implementation.

Task force must submit preliminary report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the legislature by July 19, 2020; Act takes effect July 1, 2019.