Requests the state Department of Education to study current discipline statutes and policies and make recommendations to the Senate for ways to protect teachers from classroom violence.
Impact
The adoption of SR200 would not result in immediate legislative changes but seeks to prompt a thorough examination aimed at strengthening existing student discipline statutes. It encourages the inclusion of testimonies from key educational organizations to gather diverse perspectives on issues pertaining to classroom safety. The findings and recommendations from this study, expected to be reported by February 1, 2015, could significantly influence future legislation designed to enhance the protection of teachers.
Summary
Senate Resolution 200, introduced by Senator Guillory, calls for the Louisiana Department of Education to conduct a comprehensive study of current discipline statutes and policies regarding violence against teachers in classrooms. The resolution underscores the alarming statistics that show a significant number of teachers facing threats of violence, with reports indicating that over 250,000 teachers are threatened annually and more than 127,000 physically attacked by students. The financial implications of teacher victimization are substantial, exceeding two billion dollars across the nation, accounting for lost wages, attrition, and medical costs.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SR200 appears to be supportive, reflecting a consensus on the need to address teacher safety within the educational system. Stakeholders, including educators and advocacy groups, have expressed grain seriousness over violence in schools and the mental health repercussions for teachers. This resolution highlights a proactive approach towards safeguarding the teaching environment.
Contention
While the resolution is predominantly aligned with increasing protective measures for teachers, there could be concern regarding how recommended changes to discipline policies are implemented. Any modifications arising from the study may spark debates over balancing discipline in schools with ensuring fair treatment for students. The discussions around SR200 may bring attention to the broader issues of discipline equity and student rights in the context of enhancing teacher safety.
Requests that the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, through an existing task force, commission, or other study group, conduct a study on student discipline with regard to students exposed to trauma
Requests the Department of Children and Family Services in collaboration with stakeholders to study and make recommendations for a comprehensive statewide plan for the delivery of domestic violence services.
Requests BESE to study and make recommendations relative to achieving a student to classroom teacher ratio of not more than twenty to one in the elementary grades.
Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education study the history of racism, racism's effects on public education, and anti-racism education and creates a task force to develop recommendations for implementing such education
Urges and requests the Dept. of Children and Family Services to study and make recommendations for a comprehensive statewide plan for delivery of domestic violence services
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry to study and make recommendations on ways to increase urban forestry in the state.