Parent raises alarm over safety concerns at Verina High School's open campus design

In the dimly lit room of the Henrico County School Board meeting, a parent stood before the board, his voice steady yet filled with urgency. He was there to address a pressing concern that weighed heavily on his heart: the safety of Verina High School. With a deep respect for the educators and administrators present, he prefaced his remarks, asking for understanding if his tone seemed harsh. His passion for the topic was evident, as he shared his experiences as a parent of a student at the school.

The father described Verina High School as an open campus, a design choice that he argued is outdated and poses significant safety risks. He expressed his fears that the layout allows anyone to enter the school grounds at any time, raising the potential for vandalism or worse. “It’s only been by the grace of a higher power that something has not happened yet,” he stated, highlighting the urgent need for change.

He painted a vivid picture of the school’s cramped parking lot, where cars line up down the street each morning, creating chaos and hindering school bus access. This congestion, he argued, adds to the unsafe environment. As he recounted walking the campus with his daughter on her first day, he revealed the anxiety that accompanied the experience. He had to instruct her to leave school in groups for safety, a precaution that no parent should have to consider.

His heartfelt plea resonated with the board, emphasizing the need for a reassessment of school safety measures. As discussions continued, it became clear that the issue of safety in schools is not just a logistical concern but a deeply emotional one for families. The meeting underscored the importance of creating secure environments where students can learn without fear, leaving attendees to ponder the necessary steps to ensure that every child feels safe in their school.