MN HF1920

Defines "positive behavior interventions and supports" and "nonexclusionary disciplinary policies and practices" as alternatives to removing pupils from class or dismissing them from school, requiring school officials to intervene and redirect behavior first.

Requires school officials to use nonexclusionary practices and alternative interventions before suspending pupils, and mandates superintendents provide annual professional development to educators on these practices.

Requires superintendents to work with administrators to ensure educators understand the consequences of excluding and expelling pupils, including impacts on learning and career/college opportunities, and to use serious discipline only when pupil conduct endangers safety.

Adds staff development requirement that teachers understand the significance, severity, and short- and long-term consequences of removing, excluding, and expelling pupils.

Appropriates unspecified general fund amounts to the Department of Education for fiscal years 2018 and 2019 to provide staff development and training on nonexclusionary policies and practices; appropriations do not cancel in the second year.

All provisions effective for the 2017-2018 school year and later.