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Board adopts resolution endorsing safe firearm storage and coordinated public messaging
Summary
The board approved a resolution supporting public messaging and actions that promote safe firearm storage and reduce the chance firearms will be brought to schools. The district will coordinate with the district attorney and sheriff's office on a public service announcement and information about free gun locks.
The New Hanover County Board of Education voted to adopt a resolution endorsing safe firearm storage practices and to support a coordinated public service announcement developed with the district attorney’s office and county law enforcement.
Board members said the resolution seeks to reduce the likelihood of firearms entering school campuses by encouraging parents to store weapons safely, to take advantage of available gun-lock programs, and to follow state safe‑storage laws. The board discussed prior outreach conducted jointly with county law enforcement and the district attorney following earlier isolated incidents involving firearms.
District staff said the district attorney, Jason Smith, and the sheriff’s command team (Ed McMahon referenced) have recommended recording a PSA that would be posted on school and county communication channels and would include information on how parents may obtain free gun locks and safe-storage resources.
After brief discussion, the board approved the resolution by roll call. Board members who voted in favor said the action is nonpartisan and focused on child safety; one member voted against the resolution and said the board should keep its focus on core school operations rather than passing additional resolutions. Staff were tasked with coordinating next steps with county partners.
