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Board approves armed security at selected varsity events; PCCD grant suggested to offset cost
Summary
The board approved a recommendation from the safety committee to have at least one armed security officer at select home varsity events (football, basketball, wrestling), with an estimated annual cost of about $8,000; administrators said they will pursue Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) grant funding if available.
The Shippensburg Area School District board voted to add armed security coverage at selected home varsity sporting events, including football, basketball and wrestling, following a safety committee recommendation.
Board members said the move is intended to provide an immediate, on‑site response capability during large events. The safety committee estimated the annual cost for a single armed officer at those events to be approximately $8,000; administrators said they will seek to fund the position with PCCD grant monies if possible, otherwise the district general fund could cover the expense.
During discussion board members emphasized that the armed officer would be an added layer of support to existing event staff (who handle crowd control and student supervision) rather than a replacement. Several trustees noted that surrounding districts already deploy armed security at high‑attendance events; supporters argued the measure is a reasonable, modest expense to enhance on‑site safety. A few board members and public commenters asked about funding longevity if grants lapse; administrators said grant awards are not guaranteed and the board would revisit budgeting if multi‑year expense becomes necessary.
The motion passed following a second; the board directed staff to include the position in planning and apply for available grant funding.
