The East Meadow Board of Education meeting on September 17, 2025, highlighted urgent discussions surrounding school safety and the need for enhanced security measures in the wake of rising gun violence in schools. Community members voiced their concerns, emphasizing the necessity for immediate action to protect students.

Kathleen Walsh, a local resident and police department employee, opened the discussion by citing alarming statistics on school shootings, noting over a thousand incidents since February 2023 alone. She urged the board to consider hiring retired law enforcement officers or school resource officers instead of relying solely on third-party security companies. Walsh stressed the importance of proactive measures, stating, “We need to do better and we need to do better now,” and called for improved communication with families regarding security incidents.

Another speaker, Jody Luce, echoed these sentiments but raised concerns about the effectiveness of armed security in schools. Drawing from her 25 years of experience in education, she argued that the presence of guns could escalate violence rather than mitigate it. Luce highlighted the need for a broader conversation about mental health and gun control, suggesting that these issues are intertwined with school safety.

The meeting also touched on the importance of commemorating September 11, with Walsh advocating for a district-wide memorial to honor the day and engage students in remembrance activities. She expressed disappointment that not all schools participated in memorial events, emphasizing the need to educate younger generations about the significance of the date.

As discussions continue, the board faces the challenge of balancing security needs with educational funding. The community's call for action reflects a growing urgency to address safety concerns while fostering an environment conducive to learning. The board is expected to explore these issues further in upcoming meetings, aiming to develop a comprehensive approach to school safety that considers both immediate security measures and long-term solutions.