The recent press conference held by Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul and the Department of Justice Office of School Safety OSS addressed growing concerns over school safety in the state.
With a particular focus on Kenosha, Kaul praised the local efforts of law enforcement and school officials in creating a school safety model now being used statewide.
The model emphasizes readiness, quick response, and effective recovery from crisis events.
Kenosha Unified School District KUSD was highlighted for its proactive approach, including a two-day training session for mental health professionals to ensure that school staff are prepared to handle crises in ways that reduce trauma and prevent further harm.
The importance of mental health support was underscored by Trish Kilpin, executive director of OSS.
Superintendent Jeff Weiss shared that the district’s preparedness during the November incident at Roosevelt Elementary prevented harm to students and staff, with swift actions from school officials and first responders playing a crucial role.
However, despite these efforts, parents like Elizabeth Murillo expressed ongoing anxiety about their children’s safety, emphasizing the challenges of staying vigilant while trusting in the systems in place.
The overarching goal, according to state leaders, is to foster an environment where students can feel safe, supported, and ready to learn, with continued preparation being a key part of achieving that objective.