Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear on School Safety and Gun Violence

Response to Minneapolis School Shooting

• 😔 The Governor expresses deep sorrow over the deadly school shooting in Minneapolis, emphasizing the tragedy's impact on children and society.
• 💔 He shares his personal pain, having lost a close friend in a past shooting, making each incident particularly difficult.
• ⚠️ The current climate is described as wrong, where children, teachers, and staff must constantly face the threat of gun violence.

Kentucky's School Safety Initiatives

• ✅ Kentucky is actively working to protect its children and schools, as detailed in the 2024-2025 annual school safety report.
• 🔒 Nearly 100% of public schools in the Commonwealth are meeting state-mandated security requirements, including electronic locking doors, surveillance, and locked classroom doors.
• 👮‍♂️ There has been a significant increase in school resource officers, with 842 now present in schools, a 104% rise since the current administration took office.

Recognizing School Safety Personnel

• 🌟 The Governor highlights and thanks school resource officers, teachers, and all school staff for their daily efforts to protect students.
• 🏆 These individuals are recognized as "Team Kentucky Allstars" for their dedication and bravery.
• 🙏 He offers gratitude, especially as a parent of two public school children, for their vital work.

Call for Continued Action

• 🗣️ Despite efforts, the Governor sadly anticipates that such shootings will continue without further change.
• 📣 He urges everyone to keep raising their voices and standing up for the safety of children, fellow Americans, and school staff.