Bill > H587

This bill requires mandatory training on microaggressions and implicit bias for all staff members teaching or supervising extracurricular activities in Massachusetts public and private educational institutions. The legislation defines extracurricular activities broadly to include sports, music, clubs, performing arts, and student leadership programs. Staff members must complete a training program developed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) during their onboarding and then annually thereafter. The training will cover understanding microaggressions (subtle, often unintentional offensive actions) and implicit bias (unconscious attitudes that affect behavior), and will provide strategies for creating inclusive environments. Upon completing the training, staff will receive a certificate, and institutions must maintain training records for at least three years. Educational institutions that do not comply with the training requirements may face penalties, including potential reductions in state funding. The overall goal is to ensure that extracurricular activity staff are equipped to recognize and address subtle forms of discrimination and create supportive environments for all students.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H587