Local News

Local League of Women Voters chapters oppose resolutions on arming school staff

Dear Editor,
The League of Women Voters of Homewood Flossmoor and the Park Forest Area oppose the arming of teachers and other staff in our community’s schools. At its annual conference this November, the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) will consider recommended resolutions regarding the issue.

Resolution 1 would provide school boards the option to allow district employees to carry a concealed firearm (with qualifications). 

Resolution 3 would create and fund a school safety grant to help assist school districts in the hiring of school resource officers or security personnel. School resource officers would be authorized to carry a firearm, provided training is received.

The passage of these resolutions will lead to IASB support of and advocacy for state legislation to arm teachers and school staff across the state.

The League of Women Voters of Illinois believes there is not adequate evidence to demonstrate the efficacy of such proposals. There are many areas of unanswered questions, including standards for training, the impact on children and the need to fund social services for at-risk children. Such concerns must be addressed prior to pursuing these resolutions.

The League of Women Voters of Illinois urges members of the community to contact your local school board and urge a “no” vote on Resolutions 1 and 3 at the IASB Conference in November.

Barbara A. Hayes
President
League of Women Voters Homewood Flossmoor Area
Diane Hodges
President  
League of Women Voters the Park Forest Area

News by email

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Name

Free weekly newsletter

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Name
Most read stories this week