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School committee establishes districtwide Student Safety and Behavioral Health Committee under new state law
Summary
Cumberland’s School Committee voted unanimously to establish a districtwide Student Safety and Behavioral Health Committee in compliance with Rhode Island General Law 16-53-1-2(a)(3). Members discussed overlap with existing health and wellness groups and the appointment process required by statute.
The Cumberland School Committee voted 6–0 on Thursday to establish a districtwide Student Safety and Behavioral Health Committee (SSBHC) in accordance with an amendment to Rhode Island General Law 16-53-1-2(a)(3).
Board members discussed whether the new statutory committee could mirror or combine with the district’s existing health and wellness subcommittee. Committee members noted statutory appointment rules require specific types of appointees — two certified staff appointed by the local collective bargaining agent, two support staff appointed by the local collective bargaining agent, and administrative appointees by the superintendent — which differs from the current health and wellness group’s composition.
School counsel and committee members advised that the new SSBHC is a separate, statutorily required entity even where functions overlap. Committee discussion centered on practical implementation, the potential for a single, unified committee if statutory appointment requirements were met, and the need for clearer guidance on membership and responsibilities.
After discussion, a motion to establish the Student Safety and Behavioral Health Committee carried 6–0. Committee members said further work is required to appoint members consistent with statute and to clarify the relationship between the new committee and the existing health and wellness subcommittee.
