The School Security Task Force meeting held on September 22, 2025, focused on the current state of security measures at K-12 events and the need for consistency across schools in Utah. Chief Pennington highlighted the varying security protocols observed during visits to after-hours activities, particularly during the ongoing football season. He noted that while some events had adequate police presence and strict entry policies, others lacked basic security measures, leading to inconsistencies that could pose risks.

Pennington pointed out that educational events are exempt from mass gathering permitting rules, which complicates the establishment of uniform security standards. He suggested that local education agencies (LEAs) and the high school athletic association should consider implementing clearer guidelines, similar to those used in higher education institutions, where security checkpoints and clear bag policies are standard.

The discussion also touched on the balance between safety and freedom at school events. Pennington acknowledged that while current day-to-day security during school hours is satisfactory, there is room for improvement in after-hours protocols. He emphasized the importance of evolving security practices based on ongoing evaluations and suggested that aligning terminology and procedures across educational levels could enhance safety.

The meeting concluded with a call for recommendations on how to improve security measures for large gatherings, indicating a commitment to ensuring the safety of students and attendees at school events. The task force plans to continue monitoring the situation and exploring best practices to address the identified gaps in security.