Posted on 01/14/2013 12:31:25 PM PST by Graybeard58
A proposal to train and arm Washington Community High School administrators will be discussed Monday by the District 308 School Board.
Washington Police Chief Jim Kuchenbecker and Superintendent Jim Dunnan devised the plan in the wake of the tragedy last month at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.
Three administrators would become special part-time Washington police officers with authority to possess a firearm only inside the high school.
The administrators would undergo the same firearms training as all police officers, including a 40-hour course and monthly qualification.
“We feel this is a sound, logical plan because Illinois doesn’t allow concealed carry of a weapon,” Kuchenbecker said.
Dunnan said the district always tries to be proactive, “especially when it comes to the safety of our staff and students.”
Kuchenbecker and Dunnan presented the plan Thursday to the district’s Parent Community Advisory Council, a 10-member group that provides input to the School Board.
“They were generally positive and comfortable with it. They thought it was good idea to consider,” Dunnan said. “I was encouraged by their response.”
Kim Brownfield is the council president. The mother of two high-school students said she supports the plan.
“The district has done everything it can on the exterior of the high school to keep everyone safe,” she said. “This next step would improve security within.
“It’s an advantage for the district that the administration and police department are constantly working together,” she said. “I’m grateful they’re working together on this plan. They’re doing it for one reason: their concern for our kids.”
One of the key components of a $10.6 million renovation effort just completed at the high school was the construction of a single, secure entrance.
In the past, multiple doors were open across the campus during the school day and students walked outside between classes.
Other addition security measures being considered for the high school include the use of metal detectors and the installation of bullet-proof glass in the reception area inside the main entrance.
The School Board will meet at 7 p.m. in the multipurpose room at the high school.
Washington is in the more conservative, central part of Illinois.
read that headline wrong thiught it meant washington state and illinois state and Lord knows what those 2 libtard states would consider security measures. probably strip search by pedophiles.
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