Security Guards to Remain in Elementary Schools

A month after deciding to pull security guards from Lindenhurst elementary schools, the Lindenhurst School Board reversed course Wednesday night. 

The unarmed guards, put in place following the 2012 Sandy Hook shootings, will now remain in the district's six elementary schools at least through the end of the school yard.

“The safety and security of students and staff is the district’s top priority, along with ensuring the highest level of safety throughout the district,” Superintendent Richard Nathan said in a statement. “We appreciate the community’s input and feedback.”

Parents had spent the past month making their feelings known that they wanted the guards to remain, including holding a protest at Daniel Street Elementary School. 

Newsday reported that the $200,000 cost of keeping one guard in place at each school will come from the district's $5.8 million unappropriated fund balance.

Last month, the board approved measures to purchase security upgrades–at an estimated cost of $429,000–across the district including: a new digital video recording software interface (DVR), camera additions, access key cards for all in-use district buildings, an automatic announcement for lockdowns over the public address system, one button lockdowns via text message, a door ajar surveillance system and two-way video intercom system for greeters.


Do you agree with the board's decision to keep security guards at the elementary schools? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.