CMS to allow guns on campus

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools voted on a new policy that would allow guns on schools campuses.

CMS laid out the rules starting Wednesday.

Teachers can bring their guns to school as long as they're locked away in their cars.

Board members voted unanimously on the new rules tonight but were still concerned about them.

CMS school board members said while they're not happy with a new state law allowing guns on campuses, they hope their new policy approved Tuesday night will make it clear on what is expected from employees and visitors if they bring their guns to school.

State legislators passed a bill allowing weapons on school property as long as:
• The person must have a valid concealed handgun permit.
• The handgun must be kept in a closed compartment or container within a locked vehicle.
• The vehicle must be locked except for when the person is entering or exiting the vehicle.

CMS leaders said they changed their policy in response to the new law.

"Just making sure out community knows what the rule is so we can enforce the law in terms of good school operations," said CMS Superintendent Dr. Heath Morrison.

He said employees that violate the policy will be handled on a case-by-case basis. There will be penalties ranging from reprimand to dismissal.

"This is convenience and it does nothing for school safety it does not make our schools safer, period," said Chairman Timothy Morgan.

Other board members question the new law all together, asking if it would make schools safer in event of emergency.

Now the process begins to educate staff members and the community.

The superintendent says the school district was outspoken this summer, against legislators passing the new law.

He believes it will create a new risk— stolen guns on CMS campuses.

WSOC