(a) Subject to the requirements of this section, the State Superintendent shall, in consultation with representatives of institutions of higher education and the Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board under Title 6, Subtitle 7 of this article, adopt positive behavioral intervention training requirements for teachers, administrators, behavioral health specialists, paraprofessionals, aides, and any other employees who interact routinely with students. (b) Before adopting the training requirements under subsection (a) of this section, the State Superintendent shall identify any gaps in behavioral interventions, strategies, and supports. (c) The training requirements adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall include positive behavioral interventions, strategies, and supports that: (1) Are evidence–based; (2) Include trauma–informed interventions and strategies for de–escalation; (3) Remedy any gaps identified under subsection (b) of this section; and (4) Are consistent with professionally accepted practices and standards for persons entering the field of education. (d) (1) The training requirements adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall be the basis of with professionally accepted practices and standards for persons entering the field of education. (d) (1) The training requirements adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall be the basis of a program of professional development that the State Superintendent shall share with school employees from public agencies and nonpublic schools. (2) The State Superintendent shall issue guidance on best practices in implementing positive behavior intervention plans that are the basis for the professional development program.
Maryland Legal Code