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School Safety Task Force becomes law
Senator Roy Dyson's effort to make all of Maryland's schools safer was
signed into law on May 16th by Governor Robert Ehrlich, Jr.
Senator Dyson (D. St. Mary's, Calvert, Charles) introduced Senate Bill 146
- Task Force on School Safety - for the second time this year after being
approached by Southern Maryland teachers, parents and community advocates who
were concerned about the school safety issue. Last year, the bill sailed through
the Senate, but died in the House. However, with strong support from the State
Department of Education and numerous advocates, teachers and other schools
support staff, the bill easily passed in both chambers of the General Assembly
this year.
The Safe Schools Task Force will be comprised of a blue ribbon panel
commission of experts ranging from teachers, administrators, school bus
drivers, the State Department of Education, a representative of
Maryland'sprivate schools and many others concerned about the safety of children
and those who work in and for Maryland's public and private schools.
"Maryland school children, teachers, administrators, coaches, support staff and
parents need assurances that our schools are safe," Senator Dyson said.
"I am pleased that Governor Ehrlich supports this very important piece of
legislation by signing it."
Senator Dyson added that he believes the collection of experts will produce
"outstanding legislation" that we can consider and pass in future General
Assembly Sessions," Senator Dyson said.
Most task forces work towards producing a substantial bill or several bills
dealing with the topic they are brought together to address, Senator Dyson
said.
"We'll work fast to get these members on board and get working on this important
matter," Senator Dyson said. "I have heard from numerous teachers
and others who work in our schools, from bus drivers and students that safety is
a problem that is not adequately addressed in our schools. This
task force will listen to the people on the front line. Many members of the task
force will include those who deal with this issue on a day-to day basis
so their institutional knowledge will be invaluable."
