WORCESTER Co., Md. - Following the Sandy Hook shootings in Connecticut, there's been many changes at local schools to make students safer - but it's not easing the fears of some parents.
Jeanne Zender is just one of many parents concerned for the safety of their children. "Do I feel like all the steps have been taken for them to safe at the school? No. We need to do something and we need to do it now," she said.
In response, Superintendent Dr. Jerry Wilson says schools are tightening up on current safety practices such as keeping doors secured, making sure visitors and employees report properly to the front office, and making sure everyone wears identification.
They've also increased law enforcement presence and plan on making changes to emergency plans. "One of the things which will be occurring - we'll be practicing our safety drills, but we'll also be working with the sheriffs department to a walk through with principals and the central office safety officials, so we can get another point of view," Dr. Wilson said.
But parents say that's not enough to ease their fears. Their concerns? Keeping kids in classroom trailers protected, and keeping the front doors locked. But the number one thing they're pushing for? "The world changed after the tragedy and we desperately need armed guards," Zender said. "The only thing that's going to ease my concern, and a lot of people that I know, is someone in the school every minute that the kids are in the school," concerned parent Jaclyn Cutlip said.
Officials say they are aware of everyone's concerns and are in the process of addressing them, but parents are demanding they speed it up. Dr. Wilson says they want to be sure that they get the best advice before they start new procedures.
The next board meeting is next month.
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