HARRISBURG, Pa. — Amid an uptick in threats of school violence, state lawmakers with the House Education Committee held a hearing about better-protecting students and teachers.
“These situations are real and are occurring more frequently than is widely recognized," said Dr. Jason Bottiglieri, the superintendent of the Northeastern School District.
School leaders, advocates and law enforcement officials spent the day testifying about the needs and concerns facing school districts in Pennsylvania.
Majority Chairman Peter Schweyer said it's an issue facing more parents across the Commonwealth. He said his daughter's school recently went into lockdown after a false threat was made.
“Those images of my daughter hiding behind a desk, it was the most horrific thing that I’ve ever experienced as a parent," said Rep. Schweyer (D-Lehigh County).
School resources officers argued more state investment is needed to provide better mental health resources for students across the Commonwealth.
“You can make sure you have the best locks, window exits, lockdown shades, vape detectors and metal detectors," said Todd Repsher, a school resource officer. "But in my opinion, [we need to be] working from the inside out with the behavioral health climate and culture.”
Meanwhile, Amy Bradley with the nonprofit Sandy Hook Promise advocated for the passing of HB 2086, known as the "SAVE Students Act." The bill would require 6th-12th grade students to be trained in suicide and violence prevention.
“These types of trainings are extremely important for children to have the tools to help identify these warning signs," said Bradley.
Dr. Jason Bottiglieri also raised concerns about underfunded safety programs stretching his school’s budget.
“We find ourselves in a financial tug-of-war between funding student protection, purchasing educational materials or repairing a decades-old leaking roof," said Dr. Bottiglieri.
Minority chairman Jesse Topper said this hearing is the first step in helping foster a safe learning environment for students.
“We can all, as communities, do better to ease some of the stress off our kids, and let them be kids again," said Rep. Topper (R-Bedford County).