The recent school shooting in Parkland, Fla., that took the lives of 17 students and adults was on the minds of school officials last week when they met to review plans for beefed-up school security in Kosciusko.
The plans, drawn up by architect Art Cook, have been in the works since last July when the district received approval for a $1.5 million bond. Cook was ready with completed plans — except for KHS’s — when the board called the meeting to move things forward.
With detailed drawings and information, Cook reviewed the plans for each district building in great detail, answering questions from administrators, board members and citizens along the way.
The district already has many security features and procedures in place, but clearly, recent incidents caused renewed concern. According to Superitendent Billy Ellzey, there are some improvements are already underway inside schools apart from these major security projects.
While safety is paramount, some present expressed concern about turning educational buildings into prison-like facilities.
“I don’t want our kids thinking about this all the time,” said board member Randy Fuller. “I’m still leery about the fences; I don’t want our kids feeling closed in.”
KHS Principal Corey Blaylock admitted there is only so much that can be done to prevent incidents like Parkland.
“If someone wants into a building, they are going to find a way in,” he said. “We just need to make it as hard as possible.”
One suggestion that has not yet been addressed is the addition of concealed carry resource officers at each of the schools.
“We’re going to find a way to do what we need to do to keep the kids safe,” said Ellzey when asked if there is enough funding available for security.
The board expects to continue discussion on this issue at their March 8 meeting.
