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Board weighs security options; staff to survey and cost out arming guards, cameras and alternatives
Summary
Trustees discussed options including GPS-enabled cameras, roving supervisors and the potential use of armed guards. Staff said existing cameras are being geospatially mapped and the district will prepare cost estimates and staff surveys; the board asked for broader community and staff feedback before making a final decision.
The board discussed school security measures on Feb. 12, reviewing possible options that ranged from expanded camera systems to the potential deployment of armed security staff. No final policy change was approved; trustees asked staff to return with cost estimates, implementation timelines and survey results from staff and the community.
District security staff reported that a vendor is geospatially mapping cameras with GPS coordinates so internal security and local police can quickly identify where a detection occurs. A representative said the GPS work should be finished in early March and that the mapping integrates floor plans and camera feeds.
During a broad discussion trustees and administrators explored several options: continuing to rely on the district—specialized security personnel and roving supervisors; adding outside guards stationed at building exteriors; assigning posted (non-roving) guards inside select buildings; or hiring additional district security personnel. The head of security cautioned publicly sharing operational specifics about guard placement or patrol patterns for safety reasons.
Why it matters: board members emphasized the need for both staff support and clear public engagement. Several trustees asked for detailed, itemized cost estimates, implementation schedules and any insurance or contractual implications. Members also asked that staff circulate surveys to teachers and district employees and summarized petitions and public input already submitted so the board can assess community preference.
Next steps: the superintendent and security staff said they will prepare a package with estimated costs, staffing options, training implications and a draft timeline for implementation to inform budget planning and allow public forums. Trustees signaled they expect the material soon because budget planning is underway.
Ending: Trustees stressed a measured approach that protects students while including staff input and operational detail before taking major steps such as arming security personnel or scheduling permanent external guards.
