The recent school shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, WI, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of school safety measures. While private schools operate independently, they are bound by specific legal requirements under Wis. Stat. § 118.07 aimed at safeguarding students and staff.

What Does Wisconsin Law Require of Private Schools?

Under Wis. Stat. § 118.07, all public and private schools in Wisconsin must submit critical safety information to the Office of School Safety annually. This ensures that schools are prepared for emergencies, and that local law enforcement is equipped to respond effectively.

Key provisions include:

1. Blueprints of School Buildings:
   Schools must provide blueprints or maps of their buildings and facilities. These documents are shared with the Office of School Safety and local law enforcement agencies to help first responders navigate during emergencies.
2. School Safety Plans:
   Schools are required to develop and maintain a comprehensive safety plan. By January 1 each year, they must submit their plan, including the date of the most recent review and approval, ensuring that it reflects the latest best practices and risk assessments.
3. Annual Safety Drills:
   Schools must conduct at least one school violence drill annually. Following the drill, they must prepare a written evaluation, reviewed by their governing body, to identify areas for improvement.
4. On-Site Safety Assessments:
   In collaboration with local law enforcement, schools must conduct regular on-site safety assessments to address vulnerabilities and implement corrective measures.
5. Staff Training:
   Training sessions on the school safety plan are mandatory, with records of the most recent training sessions and attendance submitted to the Office of School Safety.

Why These Measures Matter:
These requirements are designed to provide a structured approach to school safety, fostering collaboration between schools and local law enforcement while emphasizing prevention and preparedness.

Conclusion:
The tragedy in Madison underscores the importance of understanding and implementing these safety measures. While no plan can eliminate the risk of violence, adherence to Wis. Stat. § 118.07 equips schools with the tools and processes needed to respond effectively, prioritizing the safety of students and staff.