S 282 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act to promote a healthy culture and climate within schools

This bill amends Massachusetts education law to require school officials to prioritize re-engaging students in learning before resorting to suspensions or expulsions. It mandates that administrators first try alternative remedies such as mediation, restorative justice, and collaborative problem-solving for specific incidents, unless there is a documented risk of serious harm or significant disruption. Additionally, the legislation directs schools to implement broader district-wide models focused on positive behavioral interventions and trauma-sensitive learning to improve the overall school environment. The law applies to principals, superintendents, and other decision-makers who handle student disciplinary matters.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Mar 21, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Education
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors