Educators as the “Frontline” of Human-Trafficking Prevention: An Analysis of State-Level Educational Policy

Despite its significance as a policy issue, there is a paucity of knowledge about trafficking within educational policy and leadership research. The lack of research in this area and the contemporary spike in displaced youth populations necessitates examining those policies that aim to prevent trafficking through educational mediums. This study examined Texas House Bill 1272 (HB 1272, 2013), new state-level policy that brings educational leaders, teachers, and counselors into the fold of comprehensive prevention efforts. Trafficking dynamics, policies, and findings on the political and normative factors that shaped HB 1272 are presented. Recommendations for research and practice also are offered.