The issue of school safety is of paramount concern but what is lacking is clarity on the best course of action aimed at bolstering safety in public schools. We sought to answer the following research questions: What topics are addressed in school board policies related to arming employees? What outlying policy topics are addressed in school board…

Positive school climate and supportive learning environments have a significant effect on a range of student outcomes. There are a number of assessment instruments that districts can use to measure school climate. These instruments are available from and recommended by national organizations that promote and support school climate interventions.

Returning to school during a global pandemic brings a new level of anxiety for everyone involved. Even though most children are very resilient to COVID-19, many parents/guardians have valid concerns that the student could carry the virus home to vulnerable family members or others living in the home. The decision to return to school is dependent…

Despite the school shooting on December 1, 1997, under current state law in Kentucky, school officials and administrators are not likely to be held accountable, even for ignoring the most obvious of warning signs. There should no longer be the rule barring liability that is called sovereign immunity. Instead, the court should examine the actions…

This annual report is intended to assist parents and citizens to stay informed on the changes in Kentucky schools. The document also is intended as a reference source for information concerning specific programs or areas of interest in Kentucky schools. Most sections provide information concerning the following: basics of the law; what is new in…

This annual publication is intended to help Kentucky parents and citizens stay informed on educational issues and to provide them with information and encouragement to be involved in the education of the children in their community. The guide includes information on the basics of the law for various school programs, Commonwealth Testing System and…

This annual report is intended to assist parents and citizens to stay informed on the educational reforms in Kentucky schools and serves as a reference source for information concerning specific programs or areas of interest in Kentucky schools. Specific updates addressed in the report include the following: (1) assessment and school…