by: Tori Gessner – WKRN News – Nashville, TN
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A Republican lawmaker in Tennessee wants schools to start collecting data on “early warning signs” in students before a crisis hits.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Bill Powers (R-Clarksville), would require school districts and public charter schools to implement a computer system teachers and staff would use to log data on “early warning signs” exhibited in students related to their health, safety and behavior. That includes evidence of bullying, harassment, intimidation, mental health issues, substance abuse, and self-harm.
JC Bowman, executive director and CEO of Professional Educators of Tennessee, told News 2 the bill is desperately needed.
“We think it’s a win for the kids — ultimately first and foremost [for] the kids — because if you don’t know what you’re dealing with with that child, you can’t help them,” Bowman said.
The bill would require school staff to notify the district’s Threat Assessment Team each time an early warning sign is entered into the system. That team would determine how the school should respond and address the situation. Every year, districts would be required to send a report to the state containing the early warning signs entered by staff and the actions taken, without including any identifying information about the students.
Bowman added the proposal would give teachers and staff the power and knowledge they need to help students and prevent tragedies.
“It’s very important that we look at how we can identify [and] help the kids get the help they need and find adults in the building — and if necessary, go outside the building and find them help — and involve the parents in the process,” Bowman said.
Bowman told News 2 it’s important that the data remains private and the digital system is secure.
The bill still needs a sponsor in the House. The Tennessee General Assembly is set to reconvene for the legislative session on Jan. 13.
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