Securing the Perimeter & the Mind
The subject of school security is one which I feel some measure of conflict as I consider our options and the corresponding costs - economic or otherwise. The review of our current school security systems, district wide, by an independent source was a prudent decision. Like most, I am eager to hear the results of the investigation. According to Connecticut Homeland Security, there are a number of easy, cost-free or relatively inexpensive ways to improve school security. Combined with certain professional equipment or personnel, we can create a much safer environment for our children than exists today. The question is whether we want to build fortresses or employ School Resource Officers?Undeniably, there is a benefit to having high tech security cameras and other such tools in a building - but that equipment is only as good as the people who operate it. Moreover, the criminal mind is savvy - it knows when a building is off limits and when to move to playgrounds, parking lots and bus stops to look for trouble. Hence, we can build the fortresses but at the end of the day, I'm not sure we met the security goals we set out to achieve.
Conversely, School Resource Officers (SRO's) provide a presence. The motto of Protect & Serve now encompasses the notion of Protect & Educate. I am a proponent of forging a relationship between our schools and SRO's for reasons that extend well beyond security. As a Special Prosecutor, what strikes me most in the courtroom is the lack of respect for authority and law enforcement displayed by kids of all ages and every socio-economic background. For some, this is a taught behavior, for some it is a reaction to fear, for others it is the inability to comprehend consequences. A lack of respect for others or for oneself leads kids down the wrong path at a very early age. It strips them of the ability to make good choices. Children, pre-k to high school senior, are vulnerable and impressionable. Any opportunity we have to boost their confidence and empower them to make the right choices is one I'd like to take advantage of. Enter the School Resource Officer.
School Resource Officers are positive role models whose mission is twofold: (1)secure the physical safety of the property; and (2) secure the psychological safety of the students. Consider some of the contributions of a SRO:
- Resolving Conflicts
- Drug/Alcohol Education
- Peer Pressure Awareness
- Demonstrating Consequences
- Self-Esteem Building & Setting Personal Boundaries
- Cyber Safety and Digital Boundaries
- Teaching Age-Appropriate Child Lures & Practicing Prevention Strategies
While piece of mind is priceless, school security doesn't need to be a costly venture. Funding resources exist. Recently, the United States Department of Justice awarded a $2.25 million grant to one Connecticut city. It is expected that more than $125 million will be awarded nationally. What's important is that we recognize the need in Rocky Hill, and fund it appropriately and responsibly.
This is a conversation we need to have now. Let's be sure this doesn't get placed on the back burner.
On November 5th, Vote Row C for a Proactive Approach to School Needs.
Lisa J. Marotta, Independent for Town Council
