AR SB394

Extends the deadline for public schools to implement panic button alert systems or emergency communication with law enforcement from September 1, 2015 to October 1, 2021, with systems to integrate into the statewide Smart911 system.

Requires public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to conduct comprehensive school safety audits every three years by August 1, 2024, assessing safety, security, accessibility, and emergency preparedness in collaboration with local law enforcement and emergency management.

Establishes the Arkansas Center for School Safety of the Criminal Justice Institute as the state school safety clearinghouse to provide training, education, and resources to school and law enforcement personnel statewide.

Creates an Advisory Board for the Arkansas Center for School Safety composed of representatives from state agencies, law enforcement, educational organizations, and school personnel to guide school safety initiatives.

Requires school counselors to complete Youth Mental Health First Aid training by September 1, 2024, and every four years thereafter to learn risk factors, warning signs, and intervention strategies for adolescent mental health crises.