MS HB427

Requires all educator preparation programs to include training on trauma-informed approaches as part of school discipline and classroom management courses, with trauma-informed approaches defined as incorporating principles from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Mandates that public school districts and public charter schools maintain at least one school counselor or mental health services provider per 250 students and requires school counselors to facilitate creation of trauma-informed teams in each school.

Requires school counselors to provide at least one hour of annual training to administrators, teachers, and staff on recognizing trauma symptoms and utilizing trauma-informed responses and interventions.

Directs school districts to report the number and placement of school counselors to the State Department of Education by November 1, 2021, and annually thereafter.

Requires the State Department of Education and State Department of Mental Health to provide a toolkit by July 1, 2021, and directs all school districts and charter schools to develop trauma-informed implementation plans by July 1, 2022, including trauma-aware discipline policies and community collaboration procedures.