Submitted
Carmel Clay Schools is one of the first school systems in the state to take advantage of the newly-passed Senate Bill 127, allowing school corporations to seek funds specifically for school safety initiatives.
This coming Tuesday, Carmel voters will get the opportunity to be some of the first in the state to participate in voting on the newly-passed bill.
While other schools in the county have passed referendums in the last few elections, none have specifically addressed school safety. Carmel decided it was time to address its inadequate resources when it comes to school safety, and quickly.
As a city, Carmel continues to accumulate accolades and recognitions, like one of its most recent by niche.com: ‘Best Place to Raise a Family in Indiana.’ However, in comparison to other Hamilton County schools, Carmel lags behind in number of SROs (student resource officers) in the schools and salaries of social workers.
Beresford
“School Safety is not just a priority in Carmel Clay Schools, it’s a core value. The importance of a safe, non-threatening learning environment is essential for students to learn and grow. The foundation of that environment is student and staff safety.” said Dr. Michael Beresford, Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent.
If the referendum passes, one of the first actions the school will take is putting SROs in every school. Currently, there are only three SROs shared between 14 elementary and middle schools for over 11,000 students.
Schools often see progress when school safety can be addressed through a collaborative effort between SROs, mental health services and proactive planning. This is the same approach that funds will be allocated if the referendum passes.
This referendum will not exceed $0.05 per $100 dollars of assessed value for property taxes. On Tuesday for Carmel voters, the referendum will be at the top of the ballot, and the only question.
Click here to learn more about the Safety for Our Schools Referendum.
Click here to learn more about Bill 127 and Indiana School Referendums.