EAST HAMPTON, Conn. (WTIC) – Educators in East Hampton are considering a pilot program that would arm the high school’s security officer.
During a Board of Education Policy Subcommittee meeting Monday, members of the public were encouraged to offer input on the proposal that has drawn mixed reactions.
Some consider the program too reactive and instead would like to see more proactive steps taken to keep guns out of schools – such as metal detectors. However, others were in favor of the program because having a trained officer on school grounds provides the ultimate approach to safety (along with building modifications and crisis training).
Superintendent Paul Smith said the program is not a result of any immediate crisis, but due to scheduling and budgeting, the preliminary stages of starting the program needed to begin now.
Ultimately, the program is designed to create the safest possible environment for students and staff at the school. Some students in attendance were encouraged by the proposal, stating that the presence of an armed guard makes them feel safer.
Furthermore, Superintendent Smith stated that proper training, certification and previous experience must be a prerequisite to any security officer.
For example, the high school already has an unarmed officer who is not only familiar with the school and students, but is also a retired officer.
Moving forward, any officer on school grounds would have to meet certain criteria, which includes 1) Must be a retired Connecticut State Police, or Officer 2) Must undergo a full background investigation and 3) Must complete annual training and required certifications.
The pilot program would run from the start of school in September, until the end of the fall semester in December. At that time, the Board would reconvene and hear from the public to determine whether the program should be extended or eliminated.