MO HB556

Designates October as "Disability History and Awareness Month" in Missouri public schools, requiring all K-12 schools to provide disability history and awareness instruction during that month.

Students must receive instruction covering the history of disability, development of disability services, disability rights movement, and contributions of individuals with disabilities including national leaders.

Instruction goals include fostering sensitivity and inclusive school environments, teaching that disability is a natural part of human experience, and reaffirming commitment to full inclusion and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities.

School districts may integrate instruction into existing curriculum through supplemented lesson plans, guest speakers, or school-related activities, delivered by qualified school personnel or knowledgeable speakers.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall identify and adopt preliminary curriculum guidelines for districts to develop their instruction while encouraging local innovation and control.