Schools and guns: U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos is reportedly considering a plan that would allow school districts to use federal funds to buy guns. The proposal would use money from the $1 billion Student Support and Academic Enrichment program, which was set up to help the country's poorest schools by improving school conditions and technology. If the proposal goes into effect, Education Department officials believe it would be the first time a federal agency has allowed the purchase of weapons without a mandate from Congress. Educators and some politicians react with criticism. New York Times. Politico. Association Press. The 74. Education Week.
School security: Marion County School Board members say the district delayed informing parents about a school threat this week for four hours "under guidance from Ocala Police Department." They're urging district officials to meet with the police to reach an agreement that allows the district to notify parents sooner without disclosing details. Board member Kelly King says the district should be permitted to send a message such as: “All students are safe. More details later.” Ocala Star-Banner. (more…)
