With recent violence in schools in mind, the Hamilton Southeastern School District is considering security projects at many of its schools.
“National incidents have resulted in renewed interest in school safety, but it is something we need to continually review and improve,” Supt. Dr. Brian Smith said. “We can’t have a “status quo” in meeting school security needs. We have to be constantly vigilant in providing the safest environment for students that we possibly can.”
The school district is going through security audits, looking at facility layouts that have a greater focus on entry points, as well as “safe schools plans and procedures,” according to Marianna Richards, director of school and community relations.
The security projects total more than $1.2 million.
The HSE School Board gave its consensus to move forward with the projects, according to Richards and CFO Mike Reuter. Official action from the board will come at its March 11 meeting.
Reuter said the district hoped to have the security projects, which are still in the early stages, completed during the summer and to have them completed all under one contract.
Infobox: Schools under consideration for security improvements
Brooks School Elementary
Cumberland Road Elementary
Durbin Elementary
Fall Creek Elementary
Fishers Elementary
Geist Elementary
Harrison Parkway Elementary
Hoosier Road Elementary
Lantern Road Elementary
New Britton Elementary
Fall Creek Intermediate
Riverside Intermediate
Sand Creek Intermediate
Fishers Junior High
Riverside Junior High
Freshman Academy
Fishers High School