HB 339 — The training requirements

90R1882 JDK-D By: González of El Paso H.B. No. 339 relating to the training requirements for public school educators regarding behavioral interventions and supports.

SECTION 1. Sections 21.044(a-1) and (c-1), Education Code, are amended to read as follows: (a-1) Any training requirements for a certificate specified under Subsection (a) must require that the person demonstrate: (1) basic knowledge of: (A) each disability category under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Section 1400 et seq.) and how each category can affect student learning and development; and (B) conditions that may be considered a disability under Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. Section 794), and how a condition covered by that section can affect student learning and development; (2) competence in the use of proactive instructional planning techniques that: (A) provide flexibility in the ways: (i) information is presented; (ii) students respond or demonstrate knowledge and skills; and (iii) students are engaged; (B) reduce barriers in instruction; (C) provide appropriate accommodations, supports, and challenges; and (D) maintain high achievement expectations for all students, including students with disabilities and students of limited English proficiency; (3) competence in the use of evidence-based inclusive instructional practices, including: (A) general and special education collaborative and co-teaching models and approaches; (B) multitiered systems of support, including response to intervention strategies, classroom and school level data-based collaborative structures, and evidence-based strategies for intervention and progress monitoring systems in academic areas; (C) classroom management techniques using evidence-based behavioral intervention strategies and supports , including crisis prevention and intervention techniques ; and (D) appropriate adaptation strategies, including accommodations, modifications, and instruction in the use of assistive technology for instruction; and (4) thorough understanding of and competence in the use of open education resource instructional materials included on the list of approved instructional materials maintained by the State Board of Education under Section 31.022 in each subject area and grade level covered by the person's certificate. (c-1) The minimum academic qualifications for a certificate specified under Subsection (a) must require that the person receive, as part of the training required to obtain that certificate, instruction regarding mental health, substance abuse, and youth suicide. The instruction required must: (1) be provided through: (A) a program selected from the list of recommended best practice-based programs and research-based practices established under Section 38.351; or (B) a course offered by any accredited public or private postsecondary educational institution as part of a degree program; and (2) include effective strategies, including de-escalation techniques and positive behavioral interventions and supports, for teaching and intervening with students with mental health conditions or disabilities or who engage in substance abuse.

SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2027.