Requests the Dept. of Education to investigate the feasibility and cost of installing silent alarms in all elementary and secondary school classrooms.
Impact
If adopted, SCR8 would not enact a law but would directly influence school safety protocols by encouraging the Department of Education to explore new technology for crisis situations. This proposal emphasizes preventative measures that could potentially save lives in the event of an emergency. Schools would be better equipped to handle dangerous situations through improved communication mechanisms with law enforcement, addressing gaps in current emergency response strategies.
Summary
SCR8, introduced by Senator Morrell, is a concurrent resolution that urges the Louisiana Department of Education to investigate the feasibility and cost of installing silent alarms in all elementary and secondary school classrooms. The resolution emerges in response to the rising incidents of school gun violence across the United States, highlighting the critical need for swift emergency responses. Proponents argue that the implementation of silent alarms would significantly enhance school safety by allowing staff to alert law enforcement without revealing their location to potential intruders.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR8 is largely positive, receiving unanimous support during its voting in the House, where it was approved with 79 votes in favor and none against. This consensus indicates a strong legislative desire to enhance safety measures within schools, reflecting broader societal concerns about student and staff safety in educational environments. The resolution has resonated well with education stakeholders who prioritize student welfare.
Contention
Despite its unanimous support, there may be underlying contention regarding the cost and logistics of implementing silent alarms in every classroom. While the resolution does not mandate immediate action, discussions could arise about funding sources, the effectiveness of such systems relative to other safety measures, and how best to integrate these alarms into existing security protocols. It remains to be seen how these considerations will be addressed in the Department of Education's forthcoming investigation and report.
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to review the necessity to suspend all statewide assessments for the 2020-21 school year.
Requests that the state Department of Education and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education prohibit the use of certain "edu-tainment" videos as educational tools in classrooms
Requests the Department of Education to establish a group to study the current state of agriculture education in elementary and secondary schools. (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to create a task force to develop and oversee continuous learning outside of normal practices.