PA School Safety Task Force Issues Findings (June 27, 2018)

On Tuesday, June 26, 2018, the Wolf administration issued its findings from six regional school safety task force field hearings held since February. The task force included participants such as teachers, school nurses, school administrators, parent-teacher associations, and students. Hundreds of comments were also submitted online.
Through seeking information as to how the state can help handle mass shootings and threats, improve school building safety, and meet the physical and mental health needs of students, it was determined that students need to be taught social and emotional learning strategies early in school and need better access to mental health services. It was also determined that schools need more nurses, social workers, and psychologists. Schools and students also need better connection to the community, its organizations, and law enforcement.
In addition, school officials asked for an increase in state funding for safety purposes, more guidance on the most effective school safety strategies, additional training for staff on how to deal with active shooters, and training regarding how to best address the social and emotional needs of students.

A more complete report is expected at the end of the summer.