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Parents press Hillsdale Board for increased school security; board says discussions will continue
Summary
During the Sept. 15 public‑comment period parents urged the Hillsdale Board to add full‑time security coverage, noting one officer covers two elementary schools; board President Justin Saxon and Trustee Kevin Donatello said the topic has been discussed previously and conversations will continue, with no action taken at this meeting.
Several parents and residents raised concerns about school security at the Hillsdale Board of Education meeting on Sept. 15, urging the district to provide more consistent on‑site coverage.
Ed Grill, identified in the minutes as Business Administrator/Board Secretary, spoke as a concerned parent and said the district’s security plan needs improvement, citing examples of other districts that have increased security. Juliano Revalan said the district effectively has "one officer between two elementary schools" and urged priority for a full‑time security officer. Dave Burns said he was glad for the addition of an SLEO III officer but reiterated concerns that one officer is not sufficient to staff each building.
John Braunstein asked, "Do you think what we have is sufficient?" Board President Justin Saxon responded, "We have discussed this issue in the past and will continue them in the future. Those conversation will continue to be held." Trustee Kevin Donatello added historical context, noting referendums in neighboring communities have been defeated, which officials said affects resource options for staffing.
The board did not take formal action on security staffing at the meeting. Administrators and trustees said the issue remains under ongoing discussion; no vote, directive to staff to hire additional officers, or timeline for further action was recorded in the minutes.
The public‑comment exchange concluded with President Saxon thanking attendees for coming. The board adjourned at 6:27 p.m.
