Smith passes two education amendments on HB 1002 on the House floor

On Thursday, Jan. 30, the Indiana House of Representatives adopted two amendments drafted by State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) to House Bill 1002. HB 1002 eliminates several education programs, reduces oversight and removes important student and teacher provisions supporting civics, arts and mental health programs in schools throughout the state.

Both of the amendments Smith offered to HB 1002 were passed on the House floor. His first amendment restores legal language requiring schools to report incidents in which an educator is injured by a student to the state. 

In his second successful amendment, Smith restored legal provisions requiring the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) to develop cultural competency training for school staff.

"I am pleased that Chairman Behning and the rest of the House were open to working with me on these changes," Smith said. "It's critical that we track teacher injuries. They have a right to a safe work environment just like any other profession, and if we have data, then we can take action to solve problems that may arise.

"Second, requiring cultural competency training for educators and staff is essential if we are going to deliver on our state's promise of a good education for all students. If teachers aren't trained on how to properly serve students from different races, creeds or economic classes, how can they best serve our students? I am thankful our chamber agreed with me on this principle today in a bipartisan vote."