School Security In Next Year's Budget, Lacey Superintendent Says

LACEY, NJ — Following the recent shooting in Texas that killed 19 students and two teachers, the Lacey Township School District is assuring parents and students that next year's school budget includes allocations for school safety officers, the district's superintendent said.

In a letter home to parents, Superintendent Vanessa Pereira emphasized that the schools will keep students safe. "I write to you today to let you know that the safety of our students and staff remains our number one priority," she said.

Lacey schools are currently patrolled by a combination of five armed Class III officers, which are retired full-time law enforcement officers, and School Safety Officers. In the letter, Pereira confirmed that the new budget "does include an allocation for five armed School Safety Officers, who will continue to be core members of our district staff, as well as liaisons between our community and the Lacey Township Police Department."

Pereira added that the district has a "very close working relationship" with the Lacey Township Police Department and the Lacey Township Committee.

"With these relationships in mind, we continue to explore options to enhance and expand school security throughout our schools," Pereira said.

Pereira also highlighted security measures Lacey schools have had in place for the past few years, including security vestibules and a digital background checker for visitors. The district is ALICE certified as well, she said. ALICE certification means that the district has gone through school shooter response training by the ALICE training institute.

"We will continue to enforce NJDOE’s proactive monthly security drill guidance and will continue to train our students and staff in current security practices," Pereira said.

She added that the safety of the students is of "paramount importance" to every professional in the district.

"Thank you for your continued effort in keeping the Lacey Township School District safe," Pereira said.