Revises provisions relating to education. (BDR 34-752)
SB374 revises Nevada education law to expand school discipline data collection, require staff training on pupil behavior and school climate, and create a state-level support system for districts and schools with disproportionate or high discipline rates. The bill directs the Department of Education to maintain a statewide framework for restorative justice and to develop a system that helps school districts, charter schools, and university schools for profoundly gifted pupils address discipline disparities using evidence-based, social-emotional, and positive behavioral supports.
The bill also requires each school district to ensure that, by June 30, 2030, all staff members have access to professional development on topics such as conflict resolution, de-escalation, classroom management, positive behavioral interventions and supports, and fostering a positive school climate. New hires after July 1, 2030, must complete that training within one year. Districts must report annually on the training provided and staff participation, and the Department may help develop curricula or allow restorative justice training to satisfy the requirement.
SB374 amends multiple provisions in NRS Chapters 388, 391A, and 392. It expands the discipline data that public schools must collect and report by adding the number of pupils assigned to temporary alternative placement, and it requires that data to be disaggregated and publicly reported subject to FERPA limits. It also creates new reporting obligations for school districts and the Department of Education, while authorizing the Department to coordinate training resources and to oversee a corrective-support system for schools with discipline disparities. The bill applies to school districts, charter schools, and university schools for profoundly gifted pupils, and it may have fiscal impacts on both state and local government.
The bill appears to have been broadly supported, at least at final passage, with the Senate approving it unanimously 21-0. The text and structure suggest a policy emphasis on restorative justice, staff training, and equity in discipline outcomes, indicating a generally favorable sentiment toward reducing exclusionary discipline and improving school climate. No committee transcript was provided, so the available record shows support in the vote but no detailed public debate in the materials supplied.
The main points of potential contention are the new mandates on school districts and the Department of Education, including required staff training, annual reporting, and the creation of a state-managed discipline intervention system. The bill also contains an unfunded mandate and states that local government expense protections do not apply, which could raise concerns about implementation costs and administrative burden. Another possible area of debate is the focus on restorative justice and discipline equity, especially for districts that may be required to participate in corrective action based on discipline data.