Bill > LD21

This bill updates Maine state law regarding student codes of conduct by modifying the existing requirement for school boards to establish policies around student disciplinary actions. Specifically, the bill shifts the focus from simply removing disruptive or violent students to creating a more comprehensive approach for identifying, assessing, and intervening with students who may pose a potential threat of violence to themselves or others in the school community. The new language emphasizes proactive behavioral threat assessment and response, providing school boards with a framework to develop policies that include student supports, disciplinary actions, and placement decisions. The bill allows for a graduated response to potential threats, ranging from supportive interventions to, if necessary, removing a student from a classroom or school bus. This approach reflects best practices in school safety by prioritizing early identification, support, and measured responses to potential behavioral risks, rather than solely relying on punitive measures.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=21&snum=132