The "Students Safe at School Act" establishes guidelines for conducting active shooter drills in schools across Kansas. The bill defines key terms such as "active shooter drill," which is an instructional exercise for students and staff on how to respond to an armed intruder, and "active shooter simulation," which involves more realistic scenarios that are not permitted for students in grades K-8. The act mandates that the state Department of Education publish best practice guidelines by October 1, 2026, which must include age-appropriate design, accommodations for students with disabilities, prior notification to parents, and alternative safety education for those opting out of drills. Additionally, schools are required to notify parents at least 24 hours before any drill or simulation and cannot impose punitive measures on students who do not participate.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits active shooter simulations on school property for students in grades K-8, while allowing them for grades 9-12 under specific conditions. It also amends existing laws related to fire safety drills to include crisis drills, which encompass active shooter drills, and ensures that no crisis drill can include elements of an active shooter simulation. The act emphasizes the importance of minimizing psychological harm to students while maintaining preparedness and requires regular reviews of the guidelines to incorporate current research and best practices.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 31-133
As Amended by Senate Committee: 31-133
{As Amended by Senate Committee of the Whole}: 31-133
H Sub for: 31-133