During a recent Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) board meeting, students, teachers, and community members voiced strong opposition to the potential reintroduction of armed police officers in schools, a move mandated by Wisconsin's Act 12. The discussions highlighted concerns over safety, mental health, and the allocation of school resources.

Students, including freshman Aria Crawford, passionately argued against the funding of School Resource Officers (SROs), emphasizing that the $2 million earmarked for police could be better spent on educational supplies and mental health resources. Crawford shared personal experiences and noted that the presence of armed officers could create an environment of fear rather than safety, particularly for students of color.

Other speakers echoed these sentiments. Teacher John Fleisner pointed out that the directive to reinstate police in schools undermines local control and could lead to increased criminalization of students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. He urged the board to oppose the mandate and consider legal action against it.

Senior Serenity Thomas shared her peers' feelings of intimidation regarding police presence in schools, stating that many students associate police with fear rather than safety. She highlighted the importance of existing support systems, such as security guards and de-escalation centers, which foster a more supportive environment.

Angela Harris, a community advocate, raised questions about the board's legal options against Act 12, emphasizing the contradiction between the act and the board's previous commitments to prioritize mental health resources over policing. She criticized the state legislature for imposing measures that disregard community voices and perpetuate harmful stereotypes about students.

The meeting underscored a growing movement within the MPS community advocating for a shift away from policing and towards increased mental health support, reflecting broader national conversations about the role of law enforcement in educational settings. The board's decision on the budget and the potential funding for SROs remains a critical issue for students and community members alike.