Agenda Materials for April 27, 2023 Schools Safety Task Force Meeting

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Task Force Member Evan Sredzienski shared that his school had lockdown drills twice each year, including one earlier in the week that went well and included law enforcement follow-up. Ms. Fairley noted that it was important to communicate with parents ahead of time about how to work with their kids on lockdown drills. Task Force Alternate Andre Stewart commented that CHCCS conducted lockdown drills on a quarterly basis. Ms. Fairley added that there was a need to develop consistent language statewide regarding lockdowns to help parents and the public better differentiate the circumstances that might apply during differing lockdown events. Co-Chair Hamilton inquired regarding the Center's grant funding for SROs. Ms. Fairley shared information on the application process to access the $33 million available, and noted that the Center utilized an average salary statewide of $55,000 per SRO, which was workable in some communities and not in others. Low wealth communities had to provide $1 for every $3 of grant funding, and all other communities were required to provide $1 for every $4 in grant funding. She added that the Center attempted to maintain funding to a grantee for a two-year period. Facilitator Bryan conducted a time check with the group, and it was agreed the group would extend past 7:00 pm if necessary. Co-Chair Hamilton asked about parents being on school grounds after hours, and Ms. Fairley responded that communicating with parents ahead of time regarding rules and directly explaining that rules were in place for the safety of their own kids was important. Task Force Member Sredzienski asked about resources available to students when not on school grounds, like on a school bus or at a of-campus sports event. Ms. Fairley shared that students can use the Anonymous tip line anywhere, and that she was aware students had even utilized it when outside the state. With no additional comments or questions, Facilitator Bryan thanked Ms. Fairley for her presentation, with Ms. Fairley responding that she was glad for the opportunity and would be glad to help in the future. 5. Update Regarding Potential Attorney Presentations Co-Chair Hamilton shared that the plan for the next Task Force meeting, likely on April 27, 2023, would be discussion with County Attorney John Roberts and with an attorney from the UNC Law School. 6. Future Task Force Meeting Dates/Schedule Facilitator Bryan referenced the potential future meetings information included in the meeting agenda package and asked if there were any concerns. There were no comments.