SECURITY "VULNERABILITY" PROMPTS SECURITY GUARDS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Both South Orange Middle School and Maplewood Middle School will soon have unarmed security guards, similar to those at Columbia High School, Superintendent John Ramos announced at Monday night's school board meeting.

He cited an unspecified "security vulnerability" at the middle schools, but would not explain what it was.

See his announcement below:


 
His plan drew some concerns from the board about making sure the security guards were properly trained to deal with students in a fair and reasonable manner.

"I encourage us to ensure that the security guards have a temperament with the students that is respectful," said Board Member Stephanie Lawson-Muhammad. "I have seen situations where I felt it was not so in the high school...I want to ensure that it be an absolutely positive experience for every student in that school."

Board Member Elizabeth Baker offered similar views, citing a need for "training as to how to interact in an educational environment, not just training but an integration into the school community."

The security guard addition follows last year's lockdown at Maplewood Middle School that occurred after a student brought a loaded handgun to class.