Top 10 of 2025: Local superintendents react to new bill requiring gun safety be taught in schools

KTLO, Classic Hits, and The Boot News is continuing to revisit 2025’s most viewed and talked-about stories, presented in no particular order. Some will highlight uplifting, feel-good moments, while others may reflect more serious or somber events.A new law signed by Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders requires gun safety be taught in public schools. According to Act 229, which started as House Bill 1117, the intent of the classes is to protect Arkansas children from the accidental discharge of firearms by providing age-appropriate firearm education and instruction.

Cotter Public School Superintendent Jayme Jones says he thinks it’s a good course to have.

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Yellville-Summit Public School Superintendent Wes Henderson, who has seen firsthand the seriousness the lack of gun safety can cause, agrees it can be a valuable course.

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Jones says he has learned the course shouldn’t be a financial burden on the schools.

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The Cotter superintendent says they are working on how the class will work.

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The new gun safety classes in public schools will begin next school year.

There is no mention in the bill if parents are allowed to opt out if they don’t want their children to not participate.

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