Arizona Department of Education
Arizona Lawmaker Puts School Safety on the Fast Track
By Daniel Stefanski |
In a bold step towards enhancing school safety, long-time Arizona legislator State Senator David Farnsworth is advocating for greater protections in schools following a recent alarming incident. An off-duty officer at Legacy Traditional School East in Tucson successfully detained an armed man threatening children in the gymnasium, prompting renewed discussions on safety protocols.
The Republican-led Arizona Legislature has increasingly zeroed in on school safety as a priority. In response to various incidents, the Legislature established a School Safety Program through the State Department of Education. This initiative aims to ensure safe learning environments by funding resources such as school resource officers, counselors, and social workers. The program operates on a competitive grant system, renewing every three years, which local districts can apply for to bolster their security measures.
Senator Farnsworth commended the Tucson School District for securing the grant and collaborating effectively with local law enforcement. He stated, “We cannot continue to leave classrooms open with easy access for predators. We must come together as a community and encourage school districts to apply for the grant.” He emphasized the need for lawmakers to prioritize legislation that fortifies school safety across Arizona.
Tom Horne, Arizona’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, echoed these sentiments. He praised the swift actions of school resource officer William Bonanno, asserting that his professionalism averted what could have been a catastrophic event. “The presence of an armed officer has sadly become a crucial element of campus safety,” Horne remarked. His comments underscore the vital role that trained professionals play in protecting students and staff alike.
As the legislative session continues, lawmakers remain committed to exploring additional measures that enhance security in schools, driven by the recent near-tragedy in southern Arizona.
