During a recent Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) board meeting, students and community members voiced strong opposition to the potential reintroduction of armed police officers in schools, urging board members to reject any budget amendments that would allocate funds for this purpose. The discussions centered around the implications of such a move, particularly its contribution to the so-called \"school-to-prison pipeline.\"

Several students, including juniors Deadria Veal and Nevan Evans, articulated their concerns about the negative impact of police presence in educational environments. They argued that diverting $2 million from essential classroom resources to fund armed officers would not only exacerbate existing financial struggles but also criminalize students, particularly those from marginalized communities. Veal emphasized the need for investment in educational resources rather than policing, stating, \"Students need education rather than incarceration.\"

The testimonies highlighted personal experiences with law enforcement, with students expressing feelings of fear and anxiety at the prospect of police in their schools. They called for increased funding for mental health support, counselors, and educational materials instead of armed officers. \"A cop is not trained to do what a counselor does,\" noted Nathaniel Jones, a senior at Audubon Technology and Communication Center, emphasizing the importance of supportive measures over punitive ones.

Community members echoed these sentiments, with former MPS student Solana Perez recalling her own experiences and the inequities within the school system. She urged board members to consider the long-term effects of criminalizing students and to prioritize their educational needs.

The overwhelming message from the speakers was clear: the presence of police in schools is seen as a threat to student safety and well-being, rather than a protective measure. As the board prepares to finalize the budget for the 2024-2025 school year, the voices of students and community advocates continue to resonate, calling for a shift in focus from policing to education and support.