Callahan Hears Briefing on Work of New School Safety Center

Danbury—Members of the Greater Danbury legislative delegation met January 27 with The CT Center for School Safety and Crisis Preparation at WCSU. The Center received state funding and opened last year to assist k-12 school districts with training and other resources. Representative Patrick Callahan (R-New Fairfield) was among the lawmakers who met with about a dozen members of staff from The Center.

Center officials said cyberbullying and social media need to be viewed as a school safety issue. The mission of The Center is not just about addressing school shootings, but also natural disasters, cyber threats, and the potential of human trafficking.

“During the pandemic kids increased screen time and spending time on line, opening them up harmful communications. I have proposed a bill with a goal of preventing adults from having harmful communication with online, and engaging them in risky communication,” said Callahan.

H.B. 5842, An Act Establishing the Crime of Harmful Communication With A Minor, also seeks to protect students who may fall victim to having personal photos disseminated to third parties.

Callahan volunteers as a coach for youth lacrosse and football. He was also employed by the Conn. Judicial Branch for over 27 years, including serving as the supervising Chief Adult Probation officers for Midwestern CT. Callahan was Chief Probation Officer and retired in 2021 after being elected to the General Assembly.

A $2 million state grant will fund The Center for two years. Center officials estimate needing $6 million to fully staff the program and develop more services.