Our goal is to turn one classroom safety incident into an opportunity to advocate for stronger safety practices in chemistry classrooms. We are building an evidence-based case, working with relevant experts and policymakers, and developing specific policy recommendations focused on protecting students during chemistry demonstrations to work to pass a bill.

1. Build the Case

We are documenting what happened and researching classroom laboratory safety to establish a clear understanding of the issue.

This includes:

• Gathering relevant public records and safety information.

• Building a detailed chronology of the incident from contemporaneous notes.

• Researching existing safety policies and identifying gaps between written procedures and what occurred.

• Maintaining a research binder and incident-tracking record.

• Comparing how other states address demonstrations involving flammable chemicals.

• Developing a fact sheet that summarizes the problem, documented safety concerns, and proposed solutions.

2. Develop a Policy Solution

Our research will be used to develop a specific policy proposal addressing classroom chemistry safety.

We are working to:

• Identify concrete safety improvements.

• Review the proposed recommendations with knowledgeable experts to ensure they are technically sound.

• Use documented evidence and research to support the proposed changes.

• Clearly communicate the safety concerns and proposed solutions to policymakers.

3. Engage Policymakers

A central part of our advocacy is bringing these concerns directly to state legislators and their offices.

We plan to:

• Request meetings with relevant legislative offices.

• Present our research, personal experiences, and proposed policy recommendations.

• Provide policymakers with supporting materials, including our fact sheet and research.

• Seek legislative support for advancing the proposed safety measures.

• Continue communicating with offices and potential allies throughout the legislative process.

4. Build Support

Meaningful policy change requires support beyond a single voice. We are working to build a coalition of people and organizations who can help strengthen and support the proposed changes.

This may include:

• Gathering letters of support.

• Connecting with organizations and experts with relevant knowledge.

• Sharing research and educational materials.

• Raising public awareness about classroom chemistry safety.

5. Continue the Work

Our advocacy does not end with a single meeting or proposal. We will continue documenting the issue, strengthening the evidence behind our recommendations, maintaining relationships with policymakers and potential supporters, and pursuing opportunities to improve chemistry laboratory safety.

Our Goal

Students should be able to participate in hands-on science while having the training, equipment, procedures, and protections necessary to keep them safe.