SB 181 Is a step to protect our children

As the school year winds down across Kentucky, and our students begin their well-earned summer break, it’s the perfect time for school leaders to reflect on how we can continue to protect and support our children—not just in the classroom, but in every interaction that surrounds their education.

One of the most promising developments this year is the passage of Senate Bill 181, a long-overdue safeguard that addresses a growing concern across the country: inappropriate communication between school staff and students through digital platforms.

This new law, which requires Kentucky school districts to implement traceable communication systems for any online contact between employees and students, is a direct and necessary response to a troubling pattern we've seen nationwide. Far too many headlines have chronicled incidents where teachers have used text messages, private social media chats, or unmonitored platforms to engage in inappropriate and even criminal behavior with students. These are not just statistics—they are shattered lives, broken trust, and communities left wondering how the signs were missed.

SB 181 sends a clear message: There is no place for secrecy in student-staff communication. If you’re interacting with a student, it should be in a format that can be reviewed, logged, and, if necessary, investigated.

I fully support Superintendent William Sexton and the Clay County School District in their proactive response. We are working closely with our administrators to review policies and implement a district-wide communication platform that ensures every message is accountable. Whether it's a teacher reminding a student of a homework assignment or a coach coordinating practice schedules, those conversations must now happen in a space that is visible to district leadership and parents when appropriate.

Some may argue this puts too much burden on staff or that it stifles the positive relationships built between educators and students. But I believe the opposite is true—transparency fosters trust. Teachers and coaches who are doing the right thing every day deserve the protection of a system that verifies their professionalism. And our students deserve to know that every adult they interact with is operating in the light, not behind the shadows of private messaging.

This is a great first step. And I emphasize first step—because safeguarding our children is a responsibility that doesn’t begin or end with legislation. It’s a daily commitment. Senate Bill 181 gives us the structure. Now we must follow through with training, accountability, and an unwavering focus on student safety.

As chairman of the Clay County Board of Education, I commend Senator Phillip Wheeler and all those who supported this bill. We are committed to upholding its intent and ensuring Clay County remains a district where students are not just educated—but protected.