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Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act
3/14/2024, 12:19 PM
Summary of Bill S 3214
The bill aims to promote the use of counseling and other supportive services in schools as an alternative to punitive disciplinary measures such as suspensions, expulsions, and arrests. It seeks to create a grant program that would provide funding to schools to implement evidence-based practices for supporting students' social and emotional well-being.
Additionally, the Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act includes provisions to increase training for school personnel on trauma-informed practices, de-escalation techniques, and restorative justice approaches. It also calls for the collection of data on school discipline practices to monitor and address disparities in how students are disciplined based on race, disability, or other factors. Overall, this bill is aimed at promoting a more supportive and inclusive school environment that prioritizes the well-being and success of all students, while also addressing systemic issues of discrimination and inequality in the education system.
Congressional Summary of S 3214
Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act
This bill prohibits the use of federal funds for law enforcement officers in schools. It also establishes a grant program to replace law enforcement officers in schools with personnel and services that support mental health and trauma-informed services.
Specifically, the bill prohibits the use of federal funds to hire, maintain, or train law enforcement officers in elementary or secondary schools. Further, it prohibits the use of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants for law enforcement officers in schools.
Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Education to award grants to local educational agencies to (1) replace law enforcement officers in elementary and secondary schools with personnel and services that support mental health and trauma-informed services, and (2) reform school safety and disciplinary policies to reflect evidence-based practices that do not rely on the criminal justice system.
A recipient must use grants funds to hire, maintain, or train specified staff. The bill prohibits the use of grant funds for (1) establishing or enforcing punitive school discipline policies, (2) purchasing or installing surveillance equipment (e.g., metal detectors), or (3) arming teachers or other school personnel.
