PXU Board Faces Concerns Over Metal Detectors and School Safety Measures

Concerns over school safety and the implementation of metal detectors dominated the PXU Governing Board Meeting on October 3, 2024, as community members voiced their apprehensions regarding recent security measures. The board's decision to extend a pilot program for metal detectors at Maryvale and Bostrom High Schools has sparked significant debate, with questions raised about the motivations behind their placement.

Amanda Corona, a concerned student, highlighted the lack of transparency surrounding the decision to install metal detectors specifically at these campuses. She questioned whether the choice was influenced by biases related to the demographics of the student bodies. "Was your decision based on personal biases or other factors?" she asked, emphasizing the need for clarity in the district's safety strategies.

The discussion intensified as educators and parents shared their experiences during recent lockdowns, underscoring the emotional toll these incidents take on students and staff. Sarah Curtis, a member of the Alhambra High School community, recounted her harrowing experience during a lockdown, describing the fear and anxiety that permeated the atmosphere. "The electric experience of these threats is very real," she stated, calling for improved communication and emotional support for students and staff.

Lance Long, a reading teacher, expressed frustration over the district's diminishing commitment to literacy programs, arguing that the closure of reading departments undermines students' futures. He pointed out that many students are reading below grade level and criticized the district's approach to education, stating, "You have enabled these students to enter real life with a permanent handicap."

In response to the growing concerns, John Doherty, principal of Maryvale High School, advocated for the continuation of weapons detection systems, citing the need for a secure learning environment. He noted that similar systems have been successfully implemented in other districts, providing reassurance to parents and students alike.

As the meeting concluded, the board faced pressing questions about the effectiveness of current safety measures and the need for a comprehensive approach to gun violence prevention. The community's call for action reflects a broader demand for transparency, support, and effective strategies to ensure the safety and well-being of students in an increasingly uncertain world.