SENATOR MAX WISE’S SENATE BILL 2
PASSES OUT OF SENATE CHAMBER
School Safety 2.0 provides more for school safety policy
FRANKFORT, KY. (March 5, 2024) Today, Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, marshaled Senate Bill 2 (SB 2) aimed at fortifying school safety measures and advancing trauma-informed care in Kentucky's educational institutions through the Senate chamber. This priority legislation solidifies Kentucky as a leader in school safety across the United States.
SB 2 establishes the Kentucky Guardian program, empowering school districts to engage employees to bolster safety and security on school premises. Beginning with the 2025-26 school year, local school boards facing challenges in meeting school resource officer (SRO) coverage prerequisites may employ one or more guardians.
Guardians may be honorably discharged military veterans, retired Kentucky state troopers, retired law enforcement officers, and former federal agents who may provide temporary safety measures until certified SROs become available. School districts may opt to retain guardians to augment existing security infrastructure with no obligation for participation if SROs are already in place.
"We’ve learned so much about the power of additional adults with very specific training who can help keep our schools safe,” said Wise. “SB 2 complements our SROs with another set of eyes on campus or may help provide additional coverage on a school with multiple campuses.”
Guardians will undergo rigorous screening processes including background checks, medical examinations, and proficiency assessments. They will be identifiable by a unique uniform and authorized to carry concealed weapons on school premises. SB 2 also requires collaboration between local boards and law enforcement to ensure ready identification by external agencies.
In addition to enhancing security measures, SB 2 addresses trauma-informed care by integrating school guidance counselors, school psychologists, social workers, SROs, and mental health service providers into a comprehensive team. This multidisciplinary approach aims to support students affected by trauma, identify mental health issues, and promote resilience and wellness among all students.
Moreover, SB 2 requires increased suicide prevention awareness and training for teachers and students, expanding the scope of intervention and support for at-risk students. It also permits the implementation of secondary locking mechanisms on classroom doors, provided they comply with the Kentucky Building Code.
SB 2 creates the School Mapping Data Program to be administered by the Kentucky Center for School Safety. This program will establish a single verified source of mapping data for school campuses that will be standardized and accessible to public safety agencies to ensure efficient response to any school campus emergency.
"SB 2 represents a holistic approach to school safety and mental health support. By prioritizing prevention, intervention, and collaboration, we are laying the foundation for a safer educational environment where our children can achieve,” said Wise.
SB 2 also directs the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) to provide technical assistance, professional development, and training on childhood trauma experiences. It requires maintaining and updating anonymous reporting tools in each district by the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security, facilitating community engagement in ensuring school safety.
SB 2 underscores Kentucky's commitment to proactive measures aimed at safeguarding its educational institutions and nurturing the well-being of its students and staff. Now that it has passed the Senate chambers, it will go over to the House of Representatives for its consideration and passage.
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Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, represents the 16th Senate District, including Adair, Allen, Metcalfe, Monroe, and Taylor Counties and eastern Warren County. He is Senate Economic Development, Tourism and Labor Committee chair. Wise also serves as a Senate Education Committee member and is a member of the newly formed Families and Children Committee and Health Services Committee. Additionally, he is an Education Assessment and Accountability Review Subcommittee member.