Proposed security overhaul would authorize concealed carry for qualified teachers, volunteers at schools

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District (MSBSD) school board is reviewing Policy 3515, a proposed measure aimed at enhancing school safety through training, planning, and layered security to protect schools until law enforcement arrives.

At an April 15 meeting, board members discussed sweeping revisions to Board Policy 3515, a move officials say is rooted in the "fundamental responsibility" to protect students and staff.

While acknowledging that schools remain safe havens, the board argued that evolving safety risks require more proactive measures—specifically in rural or remote areas where law enforcement response times may be delayed.

A New Layer of Security

The proposed policy establishes a framework allowing "qualified volunteers" to carry concealed handguns and authorized non-lethal security devices on school property. To qualify for the program, participants must:

Meet strictly defined eligibility standards.

Complete mandatory specialized training.

Pass comprehensive background checks.

Unlike standard volunteer roles, those authorized for this program will receive a stipend for the additional duty.

Balancing Safety and Education

Board leadership emphasized that the change is intended to be a "measured and flexible" response to potential threats, rather than a shift in the schools' educational focus.

"This is not about changing the educational environment," the proposal states, but rather "bridging the gap" in emergency response times by using "responsible, community-based support."

If adopted, the voluntary program would allow authorized staff and board members to carry concealed handguns on school property. Under the proposed changes to the policy, the Superintendent would hold final approval authority and could revoke permission at any time without cause. Applicants would have to undergo a rigorous screening process, including a state-issued concealed carry permit, psychological evaluations, physical assessments, and random drug testing. While the district will provide the Board with annual reports on the program's participation, the identities of those authorized to carry would remain confidential.

Public Concern

The policy change comes amid a tense fiscal year for the district, which is currently navigating significant budgetary constraints and potential school closures, with several commenters questioning the timing of the policy change while cutting afterschool programs. “Those programs are incredibly important to students’ mental and physical health,” said Katie Stiegel. “And I’m worried that if we have the money to give teachers the right to conceal carry, and pay for their training, then why can’t we keep the afterschool programs opened?”

One mother, Dena McCarg, said that she supports having highly trained and competent staff members ready to react to any threats in the schools, she has concerns about the policy, citing a lack of “rigorous situational training,” while also questioning the mental mindset needed to undertake such a responsibility, as well as initial and ongoing training. “This is not a little thing to demand, but it is of utmost importance.”

School nurse Virginia St. John voiced strong opposition to the proposed policy changes, citing the professional mandate to "do no harm" while warning that arming staff leaves zero margin for error. St. John expressed concerns over the high risks of a weapon falling from a holster or being accessed by a student, and suggested the shift in power dynamics would destroy the sense of security students need.

“We’re asking our teachers to be educators, mentors, and now a tactical first responder,” St. John said. “This role shift is a heavy burden that detracts from the mental health support our students so desperately need.”

Next Steps

MSBSD Superintendent Dr. Randy Trani said a lot of hours had been spent on the policy changes, contacting different states and school districts that had similar policies, as well as working with the district’s insurance provider and legal counsel, and with the policy changes being made public, the district may seek out feedback from local law enforcement agencies.

Member Brooks Pitcher spoke in favor of the policy changes, framing them as a necessary defense of core societal norms like taxes and professional training. He argued that when individuals openly disregard these standards, action must be taken, noting, “There are people who can make that decision” to intervene when someone acts against the collective interest.

Citing the need for further research, an implementation timeline, and constraints of the end-of-year calendar, including graduations, Member Ole Larson requested moved to table the policy, allowing the administration to determine the appropriate time to bring the policy back.

While an argument was made to table the item for 30 days, ultimately, it was decided to bring the policy change back to the next meeting on May 6. It is uncertain if there will be enough time to gather all the information.