As lawmakers debate arming teachers in the wake of the Florida school shooting, one southern Illinois school district is pushing ahead with the idea.

In Pulaski County, Century school officials say they want to be the first in the state to give teachers firearms.

Superintendent Landon Sommers says it’s disheartening but necessary conversation.

“Some people feel very strongly both ways about it, but I feel it’s something we at least have to consider to make sure our kids are safe.”

School board member Keith Clark says lawyers are reviewing whether state law allows for the arming of school teachers.

“We arm our brinks trucks because we hold value in it, but yet our most valuable asset in our society are our children and we do nothing”