Locals Weigh In On School Security

"During the summer teachers should have some type of police training and be able to carry a gun," suggested Lee Ann Mims.

"If you get teacher armed that's just telling the kids it's ok to bring weapons and that won't work," said Joseph Grimsley.

 
"I don't know about every teacher having a gun in their classroom, but i wouldn't be against someone in authority in the office having one there," explained Suzie Robinson.

These are just a few local opinions concerning school safety and they agree they are not experts, but if they were given the chance they'd like to share their ideas with those who are. Alabama Speaker of the House, Mike Hubbard is giving them the opportunity. Hubbard said he hopes Wedneday's public hearing will bring suggestions just like these and ultimately help find the best way to protect Alabama schools. "I know there are people out there with some good ideas and I'm sure there will be some ideas out there that are just not workable, but at the end of the day I'm sure we'll come up with some very valid suggestions," explained Hubbard.

Some in Dothan suggested adding more school resource officers or putting in metal detectors and they plan to attend Thursday's meeting to share these ideas. Others say school safety is a simple fix and it doesn't require help from the legislative level. "I see the need for them to bring the Lord back into the school. They've tried everything else and I think that's the answer to most of our problems today," explained Shirley Allman.

You can make your voice heard by attending the public hearing on Wednesday. The meeting begins at 9:00 a.m. will be held at the Alabama State House in room 617.