Teachers in Western Washington are calling for legislative changes to improve safety in schools and support for students’ mental health needs

Then there’s this teacher in Auburn who has to keep evacuating her classroom because a student is throwing scissors around. It’s wild!
And let’s not forget about the Renton teacher who was beaten up badly and had to go to the hospital. These stories are just a few examples of what KIRO 7 found out about teachers feeling overwhelmed and even attacked in their own classrooms.
One teacher from Federal Way said it’s just not safe anymore. She’s been on worker’s comp for over a year because of her injuries. That’s tough!
Another teacher, Cathy DeJong from Auburn, pointed out that the mental health needs of students are way beyond what schools can handle. It’s a real struggle for both teachers and students, leading to stressful and unsafe situations.
They’re saying this lack of support makes it hard for kids to learn. Now, KIRO 7 is taking these concerns to Washington State lawmakers as the new legislative session starts on January 13.