RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina Governor Josh Stein unveiled his newly established Advisory Council on Student Safety and Well-Being on April 7. The initiative, aimed at addressing key issues affecting student security and wellness, brings together leaders from various sectors to implement practical solutions for schools across the state.
The Advisory Council will be co-chaired by Senate Democratic Leader Sydney Batch, Deputy Secretary William “Billy” Lassiter of the Department of Public Safety, and Heather Smith, the 2024 North Carolina Teacher of the Year. This diverse group of officials and educators will work collaboratively with state agencies, local leaders, and community stakeholders to advance policies that safeguard students physically, emotionally, and socially.
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The Advisory Council is tasked with focusing on developing actionable solutions to ensure the security and mental health of students while creating a conducive learning environment.
According to an official press release, the council’s primary responsibilities include making recommendations to improve school safety practices, enhancing student mental and physical health, and guiding the implementation of best practices statewide.
Advisory Council to Draft School Cell Phone Policies, and Address Campus Security, Student Discipline Issues and More
Their initial focus is to assist school systems in establishing cell phone-free classrooms. While cellphone use presents a challenge to maintaining student engagement and minimizing distractions, Governor Stein emphasized the importance of carefully considering exceptions. The council will consult with educators, parents, and other stakeholders to draft policies to handle devices responsibly for medical and instructional needs.
The council will create recommendations on proper communication, resources, and implementation strategies for local educational systems across the state.
Beyond cell phone policies, the Advisory Council is set to address a range of urgent student issues, including the following areas of focus:
- Campus Security and Violence Prevention: Heightening campus security measures and promoting awareness of safe gun storage to prevent acts of violence in schools.
- Mental and Emotional Well-Being: Addressing behavioral health challenges, including substance misuse and self-harm, while identifying supportive programs to enhance students’ emotional health.
- Access to Physical and Nutritional Health: Improving access to physical activity programs and free school meals to support student physical health and well-being.
- Staffing Strategies: Exploring avenues to better recruit, retain, and support school health personnel and school resource officers to ensure schools remain staffed with professionals trained to assist students effectively.
- Reforming Disciplinary Practices: Reviewing existing disciplinary approaches and advocating for non-exclusionary interventions to ensure equitable outcomes for all students.
Governor Stein highlighted the broad scope of challenges today’s students face, from mental health to school violence.
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“By bringing together experts in education, health, and security, this council will provide our schools with practical solutions to improve the lives of our kids,” he stated.
The council is designed to emphasize a collaborative approach, leveraging expertise from education, public safety, and healthcare experts to develop comprehensive strategies. It aims to share best practices, convene community stakeholders, and provide guidance to schools on implementing effective, evidence-based solutions.
The Advisory Council’s work is expected to move swiftly, with clear recommendations for cell phone policies anticipated to be shared with the General Assembly in the coming months. The council will consult extensively with stakeholders to ensure that any policies reflect the needs of students, families, and educators alike.
