Teacher Jessica Nichols advocates for Be Smart gun safety program in Howard County

During the recent Board of Education meeting for Howard County Public Schools, educators and community members voiced significant concerns regarding student safety and well-being as the new school year begins. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by students and staff, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to ensure a supportive educational environment.

Jessica Nichols, a high school teacher and last year's Howard County Teacher of the Year, shared a harrowing experience from a lockdown incident in October 2022. She recounted the fear and trauma experienced by her students during a false alarm that required them to remain in lockdown for over two hours. Nichols emphasized the lasting impact of such experiences on students and called for the adoption of the Be Smart program in Howard County. This initiative aims to promote gun safety and prevent access to unsecured firearms, which Nichols argued pose significant risks to children both in and out of school. She urged the board to prioritize student safety, stating, "Every child should know that they are safe in their classrooms and have peace of mind in their homes."

The meeting underscored a collective desire among educators and community members to foster a safe and nurturing environment for students. As the school year commences, the board faces the challenge of addressing these pressing safety concerns while ensuring that all students receive the support they need to thrive academically and emotionally. The discussions from this meeting will likely shape future policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing student safety and well-being in Howard County schools.