McCormick, Donnelly Discuss School Safety

Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Jennifer McCormick says the best way for the federal government to improve school safety is through support, guidance – and resources.

McCormick and Sen. Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.) discussed such issues Monday at a school safety conference in Indianapolis.

McCormick praised Donnelly for his willingness to deliver federal help for Indiana schools. And she notes his recognition that the best support is flexible.

“Any time we have any guidance that you can pick and choose kind of that option of what fits the state, what would work given your circumstances – all of that is helpful,” McCormick says.

One option discussed at the federal level would arm teachers in schools. Donnelly says that decision is best left to local leaders.

“I certainly have significant questions about that but each area, I think, is going to be making a lot of their own decisions,” Donnelly says.

Local school boards in Indiana can already allow personnel to carry firearms.