Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
Council, advocates tell committee de‑escalation training for bus operators would improve safety
Loading...
Summary
The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council told the committee that H.736/S.435, which would require de‑escalation training for student transportation staff, fills a gap in current certification and could reduce traumatic incidents for students and drivers.
Jennifer Bertrand, deputy director of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council, told the Joint Committee on Education that H.736 and S.435 would help make student transportation safer by requiring de‑escalation training for bus operators.
"This policy would help increase safety for students and bus operators and likely decrease avoidable traumatic events and costly incidents," Bertrand said, summarizing the council’s review of current practice, regulation and evidence. She told lawmakers Massachusetts does not currently require de‑escalation training as part of school bus driver certification and that national guidance from the Federal Transit Administration and the National Association for Pupil Transportation includes such training as a best practice.
Bertrand emphasized that the legislation is not intended to replace student‑specific training required by Individualized Education Programs; rather, it would fill a gap in general knowledge and capacity for bus operators to understand disability and to respond to behavioral and sensory needs on buses. She cited research showing increased operator understanding and an intention to use new skills after training.
Committee members did not vote on the bill at the hearing; the MDDC asked for the committee’s support and availability for further technical discussions on training content and funding.
