Penfield School Board discusses security measures and teacher support amid recent concerns

Safety concerns dominated the recent "Meet the Candidates" forum for the Penfield Board of Education, as candidates discussed the district's security measures in light of recent events. The decision to allow a security guard to carry a firearm sparked mixed reactions among candidates, highlighting a community grappling with the balance between safety and a welcoming environment.

Scott, one of the candidates, expressed his reservations about the decision to arm security personnel, stating, "That is not something I'm super excited about honestly but I think it may be necessary in the short term based on some recent events." He emphasized the need for enhanced security during after-school activities, suggesting that increased funding might be necessary to ensure adequate protection.

Susan praised the district's recent changes in security leadership, particularly the hiring of a new safety coordinator, Mr. Wilson. She called for more input from teachers regarding their needs for emergency preparedness, noting that many feel unprepared despite existing lockdown drills. "I think that it would be great to explore programs that could help teachers feel more secure and more prepared," she said.

Sarah raised concerns about the reactive nature of recent security decisions, suggesting that hiring a local sheriff as a School Resource Officer (SRO) could have been a more effective approach. She voiced discomfort with the current security measures, stating, "I find it very disturbing that we have to walk into a board meeting with metal detectors and armed guards."

Emily echoed the sentiment that safety is paramount but stressed the importance of community involvement in shaping security policies. "We want to make sure that our students feel safe," she said, advocating for a collaborative approach to security planning.

James criticized the current security measures as excessive, arguing that the focus should be on protecting students during extracurricular activities rather than just in board meetings. He highlighted the need for a more community-oriented approach to security, suggesting that local law enforcement could provide both protection and support.

As the candidates addressed pressing challenges facing the district, the conversation underscored a shared commitment to student and teacher safety while revealing differing opinions on how best to achieve it. The discussions at the forum signal a critical moment for the Penfield Central School District as it navigates the complexities of security in an evolving educational landscape.