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WA SB5177

WA SB5177
Considering the experiences of historically marginalized and underrepresented groups when identifying professional development resources on certain topics.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2025
In Committee
03/12/2025
Crossed Over
03/10/2025
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT Relating to considering the experiences of historically 2 marginalized and underrepresented groups when identifying 3 professional development resources on certain topics; amending RCW 4 28A.300.479; and creating a new section. 5

AI Summary

This bill aims to enhance professional development resources for school district staff by requiring the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to create a comprehensive list of resources that explicitly considers the experiences of historically marginalized and underrepresented groups. The bill expands the existing list of professional development topics to include social-emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, recognition of emotional distress, adverse childhood experiences, mental health literacy, anti-bullying strategies, and culturally sustaining practices. Importantly, the bill mandates that these resources must intentionally incorporate perspectives from diverse groups, including individuals with disabilities, neurodivergent people, those with varied gender identities and sexual orientations, students experiencing homelessness, and those from different racial, ethnic, religious, national origin, and immigration backgrounds. The legislative findings highlight significant challenges faced by marginalized students, such as high rates of verbal harassment, suicide attempts, and mental health challenges, particularly among LGBTQ youth, Native American, and Black students. By requiring professional development resources to be more inclusive, the bill seeks to create more supportive and understanding school environments that can help reduce discrimination and support students' mental health.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (7)

Last Action

By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading. (on 04/27/2025)

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