Positive Behavior for Safe and Effective Schools Act
Legislation Introduced in House of Representatives
On May 21, 2009,
the Positive Behavior for Safe and Effective Schools
Act (HR 2597) was
introduced by Representative Phil Hare (D-IL). If signed into law, HR 2597 will improve school climate and
promote students’ academic success by encouraging the use of
schoolwide positive behavioral supports (PBIS). Research has documented
that PBIS leads to improved instructional time, reduced disciplinary
problems and increased test scores. According to Rep.
Hare, HR 2597 “provides schools with the flexibility and
technical assistance needed to implement, expand, and sustain the use of
the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports
system.”
Specifically, HR 2597 would amend the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act (ESEA) to:
- expand flexibility in use of
federal funds to support schools positive behavior programs;
- increase emphasis on
improving the overall school climate;
- expand funding for
teacher training on positive behavioral support;
- expand U.S. Department
of Education support for efforts by school-based mental health
professionals working with behavioral issues.
This bill has been referred to
the House Education and Labor Committee.
Posted July 7, 2009
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