Backs Package calling for $100 million in grants to all schools
Schools across Wisconsin could have access to $100 million in grants to improve school doors, locks, alarms systems, intercoms and other items under a package of school security bills under review in the legislature.
WCRIS Executive Director Sharon Schmeling testified in support of the measure today before the Assembly Committee on Education.
“We can fan the flames of disagreement about guns, and our justified anger and fear over school shootings. But one thing is fireproof: enacting these initiatives before you today will improve school safety for our children, and the adults who guide them,” she said.
The hours-long contentious hearing raised concerns about arming teachers with guns, which is not addressed in the package.
Schmeling urged the committee to look beyond their divisions and pass the legislation.
“When deadly violence enters our schools, we all ask why? We know why: there is murder in the heart of the perpetrator. We need to be asking, why are there so many murderous hearts? This is the challenge our school leaders are working on every day, as we shape the character and values of the children in our care towards love and serving the common good. But just as these violent tendencies didn’t erupt overnight in our society, they will not be extinguished quickly, either,” Schmeling said.
She ended her testimony with a call to action,
“We urge you to approve this package of legislation. It is a good effort that will improve the safety and security of our school children. Please advance it through the legislative process so we can take advantage of the support it provides.”
The School Safety package is scheduled to be voted on by the Assembly Education Committee on Wednesday. It is not certain if the bill will advance due to a split in the houses. There is a major question about the sources of funding for the proposed grant program.
WCRIS is monitoring the legislation and will continue to advocate for equitable inclusion for K-12 private schools.
The link to the full WCRIS testimony can be found here.
