A bill that would allow teachers to carry concealed weapons in Tennessee schools is currently up for debate in the state house. The bill would require staff members to undergo 40 hours of training and approval from authorities before being allowed to carry on school grounds.
Parents and educators, including Melissa Alexander and Mary Joyce, came together for a press conference to voice their concerns about the bill. They shared a statement from a preschool teacher who witnessed a shooting and questioned the practicality of teachers being armed in such situations.
While they acknowledge the need for safety measures in rural schools without resource officers, they argue that 40 hours of training is not enough to prepare teachers for potential emergencies. They are also concerned about the lack of transparency, as parents and most staff would not be aware if a teacher was carrying a gun until an emergency arises.
Representative Ryan Williams plans to bring the bill for a vote sometime this week or next. Critics like Rick Musacchio are calling for more work to be done before the bill is passed to ensure the safety and well-being of students in Tennessee schools.
The debate over arming teachers in schools continues to be a contentious issue, with advocates for both sides expressing strong opinions on the matter. Stay tuned for updates on the progress of the bill in the Tennessee House.
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