Requires all orientation and training programs for school board members to be approved by the State Board of Education

SB 642 requires all newly elected or appointed school board members (after August 28, 1993) to complete 18.5 hours of approved orientation and training within their first year in office, with school districts covering the costs. The training includes 2.5 hours focused on identifying child sexual abuse signs, recognizing abusive relationships, and fostering trust to help students discuss safety concerns. All training programs must be approved by the State Board of Education, and board members must complete an annual 1-hour refresher on child abuse prevention (except in their first year). This directly affects all new and current school board members in Missouri, replacing previous requirements with standardized, state-approved training.