Novakhov Supports Efforts to Keep Students Safe
Today, Assemblyman Michael Novakhov (R-Brooklyn) joined his colleagues and members of the Minority Task Force on School Safety & Security at a press conference to call for more safety precautions to be taken to protect schools. After a series of statewide forums, the task force has recommended a series of changes to be enacted in order to keep children safe.
“We must do everything within our power to make sure they are safe while at school. For far too long nothing substantial has been done specifically with school safety in mind. That is why I am proud to join my colleagues here today to advocate for our children,” said Novakhov.
Specifically, Novakhov and his colleagues are calling for the following changes: increased law enforcement presence in schools, addressing mental health issues in schools, open communications between stakeholders, innovative state support for school safety and security, identifying threats and providing support to at-risk students and hardening infrastructure at schools.
“I enthusiastically support the changes put forth today. For far too long our schools have been soft targets for individuals seeking to cause harm. Allowing our brave law enforcement officials to be armed and protect our children is a no brainer, we should also allow schools to close and lock all their doors during the day. However, while increasing security in schools is good, it is not enough, that is why the mental health and counseling aspects for troubled students are so important. We must give our students struggling with mental health the support and care they need,” concluded Novakhov.