Relating to allowing school districts to make available certain school safety training courses to employees of certain private schools, child-care facilities, or organizations providing out-of-school-time care.
If enacted, SB668 would expand the availability of school safety training beyond public school personnel, thereby introducing private school staff and child-care workers to critical safety protocols. This measure reflects a proactive approach to ensuring that various educational settings are equipped to manage emergencies effectively. It would enable private and out-of-school-time care organizations to apply the same safety knowledge and practices as public schools, potentially enhancing the overall security of children across multiple educational frameworks.
SB668, introduced by Senator West, aims to enhance school safety by allowing school districts to offer certain safety training courses at no cost to employees of accredited private schools and child-care facilities located within their district. This legislation specifically mentions training for active shooter scenarios, addressing the growing concern for safety in educational environments. The bill permits school districts to solicit and accept financial contributions from public and private entities to offset the costs of such training programs.
The sentiment surrounding SB668 has generally been supportive, particularly among advocates for children's safety and education. Organizations such as the Texas Private Schools Association have voiced their approval, highlighting the bill as a necessary step toward maximizing taxpayer dollars on evidence-based practices for child safety. However, there is a concern among some members of the legislature regarding the potential implications of such training on personnel in private settings, questioning whether it adequately addresses all potential safety breaches in these environments.
Notable points of contention stem from discussions around the bill's funding mechanisms, as it allows for acceptance of gifts and donations, which raises questions about the source of funding and its regulation. Legislators expressed differing opinions on whether the bill effectively safeguards the interests of children while maintaining fairness and transparency in funding. Additionally, some committee members voiced concerns about the bill expanding the role of public school district resources into private institutions, prompting a debate on jurisdiction and accountability.
Education Code
Human Resources Code