Teacher Health and Wellness Act (HR 4221, 116th Congress)
Commissions the National Institutes of Health to conduct research on evidence-based strategies for combating stress among teachers to improve classroom environments and reduce turnover in the educational profession.
Policy Details
Originating Entity
Last Action
Date of Last Action
Congressional Session
Date Introduced
Publication Date
Oct 22 2019SciPol Summary
The Teacher Health and Wellness Act requires that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conduct a research study on evidence-based methods of reducing stress and improving job retention among teachers through support and wellness services in academic institutions. The bipartisan bill aims for this study to highlight strategies to mitigate teacher burnout and depression in order to promote stability and productivity in learning environments.
Specifically, the bill asks that the NIH investigate and realize any of the interventions listed below over a period of five years:
- Wellness and stress-reduction initiatives in workplaces;
- “Social emotional learning” programs;
- Mentoring networks and professional training programs to advance continued education and leadership skills among teachers;
- Psychological support through teacher residency programs; and/or
- Reevaluation of teacher compensation packages.
Following this study, the NIH would analyze and present the results to Congress via a publicly available report. The report would also include recommendations for promoting teacher wellbeing, especially in relation to stress, and for reducing job turnover.
