— In Mississippi, the Court of Appeals of Mississippi reversed and reinstated a lawsuit brought by parents whose child was assaulted by a fellow-student. Disagreeing with the lower court, the appellate court ruled that “public schools have the responsibility to use ordinary care and to take reasonable steps to minimize foreseeable risks to students thereby providing a safe school environment.” The educators were not immune from the negligence lawsuit because state immunity provisions, “are applicable only to claims by the student who was the object of discipline, and not injured third parties.” J.D. by & Through Mingo v. McComb School District
— In New York, the Utica School District is installing a concealed weapons detection system for all 13 schools in the district. The system will scan everyone entering the schools for weapons without leading to lines and students getting to class late.
— In Texas, the Dallas Independent School District is implementing the “Say Something Anonymous Reporting System” at schools with grades 6 through 12. Students can use the app, website or hotline to submit tips about threats to campus. bullying or sexual harassment to the National Crisis Center. Creditable threats are evaluated and referred to campus officials and local law enforcement for action.
— In Florida, House Bill 1421 has been enrolled – passed by the legislature – and is awaiting the signature of the Governor. The provisions of HB 1421 gives authority to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Safety Commission to oversee the implementation of school safety measures, investigate responses by schools to school shootings, and develop recommendations for improvements. The mental health of students will be a priority for campus programs.