Wantagh Schools Boost Safety Procedures After Connecticut Shooting

The Wantagh School District has responded to last Friday’s tragic Newtown, Conn. school shooting by implementing further security measures.

Wantagh Acting Superintendent Maureen Goldberg sent a message to district parents Wednesday morning updating them on steps administrators have taken in the immediate aftermath of the elementary school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School that left 26 people dead. Goldberg said that in addition to “comprehensive plans” already in place to address safety issues at the district’s five schools, further security measures are being added.

“In reviewing some of our practices, we decided to implement further security measures to include limited and controlled point of entry at each building and the addition of a security guard at each of our elementary schools,” said Goldberg in her message, which was posted on the district’s website . “Situations like these give us cause to reflect on our own practices and procedures as we look toward providing the safest environment for our students.

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The neighboring Seaford School District has also boosted safety procedures following Friday’s elementary school shooting.

Goldberg emphasized that Wantagh’s three elementary are equipped with electronic door entry systems and the middle school and high school have security personnel assigned to main entrance-ways. She said the district’s safety procedures at all five schools have been reviewed with local law enforcement officials.

Wantagh’s Crisis Intervention Team met Friday after learning of the tragedy to address the emotional well-being of students and staff and to plan for questions that may be raised on Monday when returning to classes.

“Our counselors, psychologists and social workers carefully monitored and assisted those demonstrating particular need,” Goldberg said. “Although our staff’s own pain was particularly acute, they all addressed the questions of our children if they arose and counseling staff met with students demonstrating particular need. We will continue to monitor student reaction and respond accordingly.”