Billings schools consider arming employees for safety and accountability

The Billings Public Schools Board is considering a proposal to authorize an armed employee, specifically an armed marshal, to enhance safety. Superintendent Dr. Erwin Garcia proposed changing current policy language to make this possible. He emphasized the discussion focuses on safety and well-being, not firearms, aiming to protect health, safety, and maintain order on school property.

The proposed role would be filled by an active or retired peace officer, rigorously trained according to Montana law and subject to fingerprint background checks. Garcia clarified this would not involve arming teachers, administrators, principals, or students. The marshal would primarily protect the public, staff, and students during large meetings and gatherings, not routinely be inside schools unless necessary. The role could also assist with attendance enforcement and truancy issues that current staff cannot address.

The proposal faced community opposition during the school board presentation. Ione Young of Billings Moms Demand Action expressed concerns that authorizing one person to carry a gun could lead to more armed individuals in schools, despite existing School Resource Officers (employed jointly by the district and police department) already being armed and well-trained. Despite the mixed reactions, Superintendent Garcia remains optimistic about exploring this solution and looks forward to further discussions with the board and public.

Separately, the city of Laurel is initiating a new grant program aimed at helping formerly incarcerated individuals find employment.