Amend CSHB 2237 by adding the following appropriately numbered SECTION and renumbering subsequent SECTIONS of the bill accordingly: SECTION ___. Subchapter J, Chapter 21, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 21.461 to read as follows: Sec. 21.461. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTES REGARDING EDUCATION OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES. (a) The commissioner shall develop and make available professional development institutes for teachers and paraprofessionals relating to research-based instructional services for students with disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders. (b) A professional development institute developed under this section must address: (1) disability-specific information necessary to enable a teacher or paraprofessional to work effectively in the classroom with students with disabilities; (2) instructional techniques proven by scientifically based research to be effective in teaching the curriculum required under Section 28.002 to students with disabilities; and (3) appropriate management of behaviors related to a student's disability that may affect the student's performance. (c) The commissioner shall adopt criteria for selection of teachers and paraprofessionals authorized to attend a professional development institute developed under this section. The commissioner must give priority to teachers and paraprofessionals who have a significant level of professional contact with students with autism spectrum disorders. (d) From funds appropriated for the purpose, the commissioner shall pay a stipend to each teacher or paraprofessional who completes a professional development institute developed under this section. The commissioner shall determine the amount of the stipend paid under this subsection.