Group Urges Council To Pass Student Safety Act
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A new school safety measure is up for debate in the City Council.
The bill would require the Department of Education to report the number of students arrested and suspended.
Before Thursday's hearing, students and parents rallied in favor of the proposal. They say reporting the disciplinary actions and breaking down the offenders by race and gender will be used to create more effective safety practices.
"This really sheds light and sun light on information that is critical to hold school safety agents accountable within the school setting. So really it's about the dignity and the respect of our young people and encouraging the best out of them," said City Councilwoman Melissa Mark-Viverito.
Since the New York City Police Department took control of school safety in 1998, more than 5,000 school safety officers, and at least 200 armed officers have been assigned to the city’s public schools.
The City Council is expected to vote on the measure on Monday.