SB 6431 states that an increasing body of research shows an association between adverse childhood experiences such as trauma, violence, or abuse, and decreased student learning and achievement. Underserved youth populations in Washington who are not receiving access to state services continue to remain at risk for suicide.
The bill states that OSPI must work with state agency and community partners to assist
schools in implementing youth suicide prevention activities, which may include the
following:
- Training for school employees, parents, community members, and students in recognizing and responding to the signs of suicide;
- Partnering with local coalitions of community members interested in preventing youth suicide; and
- Responding to communities determined to be in crisis after a suicide or attempted suicide to prevent further instances of suicide.
Additionally, SB6431 requires the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to prioritize funding for assisting certain schools and communities in implementing youth suicide prevention activities. This includes schools and communities identified by the Department of Health as situated in a high-risk area or in a community with high-risk populations, tribal communities, and communities with a high percentage of students who speak English as a second language.
The legislature appropriates $430,000 from the general fund for this act for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015.
Substitute bill: The amended version of the bill removes the appropriation.
