Supt. Belson: Our Schools are Safe; As Precaution District to Enhance Security

– Allison Goldsberry

Following a horrific mass shooting at a Connecticut elementary school that has left the nation both stunned and saddened, the Medford Public Schools will join other school districts in strengthening security, according to School Superintendent Roy Belson.

Superintendent Belson made the announcement on Sunday morning. Belson met with Mayor Michael McGlynn and other city officials, and while they concluded Medford’s schools are safe, they decided enhanced measures will add “an extra dimension of security” to the district’s nine schools.

Added measures include uniformed and plain clothes police officers at every school; additional school staff being assigned to “security watch;” an upgrade of security cameras; and increased supervision of visitors entering schools.

Superintendent Belson said the enhanced security will last into January. School officials will evaluate conditions at that time. Belson noted it will be “less convenient” for visitors to enter schools but that the enhanced security shouldn’t disrupt student learning.

In his statement Superintendent Belson expressed his condolences to the victims of the Newtown, Connecticut shooting. He also asked parents to limit their children’s exposure to the media’s coverage of the tragedy.

Superintendent Belson’s entire message can be read on the school website.