The State Board of Education on lengthy discussion chose to table action on a teacher-discipline recommendation concerning Brenda Smith, who had a loaded handgun reportedly stored inside a purse found in a faculty bathroom.

Board staff presented the case on a negligence theory because charges against Smith were dismissed by local authorities. "We are moving forward on this theory of negligence or other good cause," counsel told the board, noting staff considered the risk of harm low, the teacher’s cooperation and remorse, and the board’s limited disciplinary burden compared with criminal proceedings.

Several board members expressed strong concern about the optics and safety risk of a weapon on school property. Dr. Maxwell said she was sympathetic to the teacher’s remorse but questioned whether "a formal reprimand is just not" adequate in a case involving an unsecured firearm and extensive training associated with a carry permit. Other members sought clarity about whether a carry permit, enhanced training or prior background checks affect the negligence calculus.

Board members also discussed the interplay between recent statutory changes that authorize certain trained educators to carry weapons under tightly controlled conditions and the distinct facts of this case, where staff said the educator did not notify the school administration that she was carrying. Board counsel offered to present additional legal context on the applicable federal and state statutes.

After extended questioning and requests for further legal analysis — including whether enhanced permits, location of the weapon (faculty lounge vs. classroom) and the dismissal of criminal charges should affect sanction severity — a motion to table the item to the board’s December meeting passed by voice vote. The tabling directs staff to return with additional recommendations and analysis for the board’s consideration.

Next steps: The board asked legal staff to dig deeper into statutory distinctions and to return with written guidance and, if appropriate, revised recommendations at the December meeting.