A change to a long-standing internal policy in Mississippi could send ripples in how schools will protect themselves with more protectors capable of concealed-carry.
Last week, the Mississippi Board of Education voted to change a policy that has been in effect for over three decades. Previously, it only allowed law enforcement to carry guns on public school grounds. However, with the change, it also covers those that are licensed for concealed-carry.
“A school district may, in its discretion, prohibit or allow its employees who hold enhanced conceal-carry licenses to possess weapons at the school,” noted Jean Cook, director of communication for the Board. The rule is currently in a temporary state, open for a 25-day period for comments, before the Board decides to make it permanent.
As a result, schools can now decide who will serve as protectors, potentially putting a dent in the ongoing violence from active shooter events. The only question now is how other districts – and possibly other states – could change their rules as well.
Here to speak about the importance of this decision is Stephen Willeford. Stephen serves as a spokesman for Gun Owners of America. In 2017, he stopped the Sutherland Springs, Texas mass shooting, acting as the “good guy with a gun.” His expertise is certainly welcome in this matter.
Q&A:
- Considering what took place in Uvalde a few weeks ago, how big a step forward is Mississippi’s decision in allowing concealed-carry protectors within schools?
- Do you believe the rule could carry over into other states if it proves effective in Mississippi school districts, depending on who uses it?
- Some parents may be breathing a sigh of relief over the decision to modify the policy. But what would you say those who are skeptical about it being implemented?
- You’ve been a long-time supporter of concealed-carry for private citizens. Why do you believe it would be so effective compared to, say, an assault weapons ban?
- What other initiatives do you believe could be put in place to keep children safe in schools? Or is this enough?
- Where can we learn more about you, as well as the Gun Owners of America?
- My official website is http://www.stephenwilleford.com. You can read more about the Gun Owners of America at https://www.gunowners.org/.
About Stephen Willeford…
Stephen represents the Gun Owners of America and is known around the country as the “good guy with the gun” for helping stop the largest Texas mass shooting in the history of the state in 2017. He is available to speak about anything surrounding the 2nd Amendment, as well as the importance of the Gun Owners of America. You can read more about him at http://www.stephenwilleford.com.
CONTACT: Gerald McGlothlin at: jerry.specialguests@gmail.com or 919-437-0001
