Haverhill parents demand improved safety measures after student hit by car near Hunking School

In a recent Haverhill School Committee meeting, a heartfelt plea from a concerned parent highlighted pressing safety issues at the Hunking School, following a distressing incident where his daughter was struck by a car. The parent, who has a background in emergency medical services, expressed gratitude for the swift response from school officials but raised serious concerns about the lack of adequate safety measures and staffing at the school.

The incident, which occurred on December 5, 2024, prompted the parent to question the effectiveness of current safety protocols, particularly in light of significant budget cuts totaling $11 million. He emphasized that the school’s safety subcommittee had not met since 2019, raising alarms about the oversight of student safety in a rapidly growing school environment that now serves over 1,100 students.

Principal Tim Betty acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that safety has always been a priority since he took on the role. He assured attendees that immediate steps were being taken to enhance safety measures, including staffing the crosswalk in front of the school and collaborating with the Haverhill Police Department to reassess safety protocols.

The discussion also touched on the broader issue of crossing guard shortages across the district, with three positions currently unfilled. The superintendent noted ongoing efforts to recruit crossing guards, including recent job fairs and pay increases, but acknowledged the challenges in maintaining a consistent workforce.

Committee members expressed their commitment to addressing these safety concerns, with suggestions for forming a subcommittee to review emergency response protocols and crossing guard placements. The urgency of the matter was underscored by the parent’s insistence that without proper staffing and procedures, future incidents could lead to more severe consequences.

As the meeting concluded, the committee recognized the need for a comprehensive approach to ensure the safety of all students, emphasizing that proactive measures must be prioritized over reactive responses. The community awaits further developments as the school district works to implement necessary changes to safeguard its students.