Arming teachers will not happen at Oak Ridge Schools, officials say

OAK RIDGE, Tenn. (WATE) — Educators at Oak Ridge Schools will not be among those in Tennessee allowed to carry concealed firearms in schools after the governor signed legislation last week.

A statement shared by a communications specialist with Oak Ridge Schools on Monday says the following:

While Governor Lee has signed the legislation allowing concealed firearms in schools into law, Oak Ridge Schools will not allow teachers or school staff to carry firearms in our buildings. As educators, it is our duty and privilege to keep our students and staff safe, and we remain committed to implementing effective and comprehensive policies that prioritize the well-being of everyone in Oak Ridge Schools. We are grateful for our partnership with Oak Ridge law enforcement agencies and believe that our School Resource Officers and ongoing investments in safety infrastructure have a greater positive impact on our overall safety than arming staff would.

Molly Gallagher Smith
Communications Specialist

Tennessee lawmakers passed it in a 68-28 vote in favor of the bill and sent it to Republican Gov. Bill Lee for consideration last week. The bill was brought by Cookeville Republican Ryan Williams, which proposed permitting teachers to carry concealed handguns on campus if they meet certain requirements.

The law takes effect immediately upon receiving the governor’s sign-off and will be in place before the 2024-2025 school year.

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