Committee gives bipartisan support to Sen. Daughtry bill to help teachers create inclusive learning environments

AUGUSTA — On Tuesday, the Legislature’s Education and Cultural Affairs Committee passed a bill from Sen. Mattie Daughtry, D-Brunswick, to better help teachers in Maine create inclusive, supportive classrooms. LD 633, “Resolve, Directing the Department of Education To Implement Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training for Educators,” received a vote of 11-1 with one member absent. 

“In the classroom, students learn much more than history, math and writing — they also learn cooperation, kindness and empathy. This bill aims to provide teachers with the training they need to help their students feel safe while learning and ultimately become well-rounded adults,” said Sen. Daughtry. “I’m grateful to the committee for giving such strong support to this bill, which will help teachers, students and families across Maine.”

As amended, LD 633 would require the Department of Education to require certified employees in a school — including but not limited to superintendents, principals, teachers and educational technicians — to complete a diversity, equity and inclusion training program as a condition of recertification. 

This bill is supported by the ACLU of Maine and the Maine Education Association.

LD 633 now faces votes in the Senate and House.