Board recognizes 'Be Smart' week after public testimony and debate on firearm storage

Board member Miss Chamblee moved and Chair Mosley seconded a resolution recognizing August as Be Smart week, a countywide effort to encourage secure firearm storage in homes to reduce child and teen access to unsecured guns. The motion followed public testimony from multiple speakers including teacher Jessica Nichols, physician and gun‑safety advocate Dr. Andre DeStefano and a representative of the Howard County Education Association who urged the board to raise awareness and provide resources for families.

Teacher Jessica Nichols recounted an Oct. 4, 2022 lockdown hoax and said, "Be Smart is a non partisan, common sense initiative that addresses a simple truth. Unsecured firearms are 1 of the greatest risks to our children both in and out of the classroom." Dr. Andre DeStefano, a physician and gun safety researcher, called for the district to inform families about evidence‑based secure storage practices and noted other Maryland jurisdictions that have distributed guidance.

Board members debated procedure before the vote, with one member asking that the board set a formal process for resolutions going forward; another member said the resolution stood on its own merit. When the motion was called, the vote recorded as follows: Miss Chamblee — yes; Miss Ricks — yes; Miss Watts — abstain (questioned procedural timing); Mr. Alistair — yes; Dr. Chen — no; Miss McCoy — yes; Miss Mosley — yes. The board clerk announced, "Motion carries 5 1 1."

The resolution recognizes the value of educating families about secure storage practices and directs staff to provide information to families and the school community. Board members and presenters said the resolution is intended to be informational and to increase awareness; it does not change law or district policy.