Students urge return of ‘safe zone’ signs; heated public comments follow at Paola board meeting

Students told the Paola Unified School District Board of Education that removing “safe zone” signs harmed vulnerable students and asked the board to restore them. Bethany Salmon, speaking during open forum, said petitions and broad community support back the request and framed the signs as a nonpolitical commitment to student safety. “These signs represent the very commitment. They are a symbol of inclusive and safety and support for those who need it most,” Salmon said.

Another student, LC Blackmore, recounted name-calling and in-class incidents they said went unaddressed, and criticized the board’s recent actions as unlawful and harmful. Blackmore referenced the Kansas Open Meetings Act and the board’s internal policies in arguing that the removal of the signs betrayed students’ trust and increased stigma and risk. “When the actions taken are not aligned with the needs of the students, it sends a powerful and harmful message,” Blackmore said.

A member of the public, identified as Steve Beekman, spoke afterward opposing the idea of student “safe spaces” and criticized the discussion as a misuse of school time. His remarks included sharply critical language directed at students, and meeting staff reminded speakers to address the board. The meeting record shows a clear split in community sentiment during public comment, with students urging protective actions and at least one resident opposing those efforts.

Ending: The comments closed the open forum with no immediate board action recorded on the signs; board members heard the concerns and will determine next steps within administrative and policy constraints.