MS HB1125

Requires educator preparation programs to include trauma-informed approaches in school discipline and classroom management courses, defined as incorporating trauma awareness principles from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to foster safe learning environments where each student is known by at least one adult.

Mandates that public school districts and public charter schools provide at least one school counselor or mental health services provider per 250 students, with every high school required to employ at least one school counselor.

Requires school counselors or administrators to establish a trauma-informed team in each school consisting of administrators, counselors, teachers, mental health providers, and other personnel to identify students impacted by trauma.

Obligates school counselors to provide at least one hour of annual training to administrators, teachers, and staff on recognizing trauma symptoms and utilizing supportive interventions and strategies.

Requires the Department of Education to create a trauma-informed toolkit by July 1, 2021, in collaboration with the Department of Mental Health, and mandates all school districts and charter schools submit implementation plans by July 1, 2022.