HR 7 Summary

• Recognizes the importance of safe school environments free from violence, harassment, bullying, and discrimination for students, staff, and families in Alaska schools

• Cites a 2015 Columbia University study showing that every $1 spent on social and emotional learning in classrooms generates $11 in long-term benefits by reducing drug use and violence

• Acknowledges the legislature appropriated $21,000,000 for school safety upgrades in fiscal year 2014 and that the Department of Education plans a statewide school safety convention in fall 2018 with all 54 school districts

• Supports comprehensive school safety efforts including increased employee training, law enforcement coordination, enhanced mental health services (nurses, counselors, psychologists), and safety infrastructure investments

• Affirms that creating safe schools requires collaborative efforts among schools, districts, families, public health providers, law enforcement, and tribal and community leaders