Parents Speak Out on School Security

School officials announced last week that they are considering adding an additional 130 armed personnel at Hillsborough schools.

The announcement would be a long-term plan to continue enhanced security measures in the wake of last month's shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Conn.

The new measure would cost $4.1 million.

The School Board is set to take a vote on the security plan at its Jan. 15 meeting.

News of the enhanced security has been met with mixed feelings from the community.

Eric Holt, a Westchase resident and Westchase Elementary School Dad's Club member, said he had mixed feelings on the issue. Here's what he wrote to Patch about the issue:

"Perhaps a full-time presence of an officer at schools would be a deterrent/protective measure.  However, I do not think it is the only, or even the best solution to improving the safety of our children.  Beyond larger, federal measures (I hope), I could see improved surveillance and more secure access to school grounds/classrooms as a powerful measure to children and staff safety."

So what are your thoughts on having beefed up security at district schools? Will it make things safer?

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