October 20, 2019
Dear editor;
The League of Women Voters of Central Kane County opposes the arming of teachers and other staff members in all of our community schools.
In November, the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) annual conference will consider two recommended Resolutions: Resolution No. 1 would provide school boards the option to allow district employees to carry a concealed firearm with qualifications.
Resolution No. 3 would create and provide funds for a school safety grant to help assist school districts in the hiring of school resource officers, or security personnel. School resource officers would be authorized to carry firearms provided training is received.
The passage of these resolutions would lead to IASB support of and advocacy for State legislation to allow teachers to carry weapons and for school staff members across the State.
The League of Women Voters of Illinois believes there is not adequate evidence to demonstrate the efficacy of such proposals. There are many areas of unanswered questions, including standards for training, the impact on children, and the need to provide funds for social services for at-risk children. Such concerns must be addressed prior to pursuing these Resolutions.
The League of Women Voters of Illinois urges members of the community to contact your local school boards and urge a “no” vote on resolutions No. 1 and No. 3 at the IASB conference in November.
Patti Lackman, Jean Pierce, Llona Steele, co-presidents, League of Women Voters of Central Kane County