MO HB455

Public school districts must conduct Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) screenings for each student once before completion of first grade and again before completion of third grade, beginning in the 2012-2013 school year.

Screenings must use methods approved by the Children's Commission on Sensory Processing Disorder and be performed by trained school nurses or qualified school district employees.

When a student fails the SPD screening, the school district shall notify the parent or guardian and recommend a complete physical examination by a physician or doctor of osteopathy.

The Children's Commission on Sensory Processing Disorder shall be established with five members appointed by the governor, including two physicians, one school nurse, one representative from the department of elementary and secondary education, and one representative from the Missouri State School Boards Association.

The commission shall adopt standardized SPD screening tests, develop reporting forms, coordinate staff training programs, and conduct a pilot project to track screening results; parents may request written exemption from the screening program.