Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Here is the latest news from the Capitol.
Student Safety
Today, House Republicans unveiled a list of proposals that puts student safety first. It’s a multifaceted legislative package that will provide $50 million to help with everything from building security upgrades to hiring more school counselors and school resource officers. Furthermore, our package not only provides needed funding and resources to address student safety and mental health, but it also gives our school districts flexibility to make changes that best fit their needs.
The proposals in our package have been moving through committees this session, as we looked at what ideas and policy changes will have a meaningful impact on school security and student safety. Key highlights in the proposal include:
- School resource officers, student support personnel, and other school security programs funded through increased Safe Schools revenue
- School building security upgrades, and expanded use of Long-Term Facility Maintenance revenue for security projects, including emergency communications systems
- School-linked mental health programming to ensure better outcomes for all kids
- Physical security audit grants to provide state assistance to review facility security and crisis management policies
- Suicide prevention training for teachers to help educators learn how to engage and assist students experiencing mental distress
- School-based threat assessment teams established to assess, intervene, and report threats facing students, teachers, and staff
As a parent, former educator and legislator, the well-being and safety of Minnesota kids is a top priority.
Happy Easter!
As families head into the long holiday weekend, I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Easter and Passover. I hope your holiday is filled with cherished time spent with loved ones, and if you’re traveling out of town, have a safe journey!
Happy Easter!
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As always, if you have ideas about what you would like to see happen this session or need assistance on a matter of state government, I welcome you to contact me. Please don’t hesitate to call (651-296-1147), email (rep.kelly.fenton@house.mn) or stop by my office.
Sincerely,
Kelly
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