Pointing to the number of camera around the grounds of the Allapattah Flats K-8 school, and the single point of entry, St. Lucie Schools Police Chief Brian Reuther says campuses today are safer than before.
“(We've) increased the training, increased the drills we have conducted," says Reuther.
Law enforcement and school leaders met Monday adding that one key to school safety is working with the kids.
“Having students tell us why these issues come up and how we as adults can make their world safer," said Port St. Lucie Police Chief John Bolduc.
Since the Parkland shooting, the sheriff’s office says they get anywhere from 8-10 calls per day involving potential school safety incidents.
“Parents, students, and educators have taken the initiative to share just about anything with us and we welcome that and we are responding to that information," said Sheriff Ken Mascara.
I asked about engaging an active shooter.
You go to the sound of gunfire was the reply.
“If you are the patrol officer or School Resource Officer at the school, you will act, you will respond," said Fort Pierce Police Chief Diane Hobley-Burney.
As to arming teachers, Superintendent Wayne Gent says they already have enough on their plate.
“I think with active school resource deputy and school resource officers, I think that’s where it should be," said Gent.
Gent is hoping that state money will get a School Resource Officer on every campus, including elementary schools.
Sheriff Mascara plans to send a letter to all licensed gun dealers in the county to see if they’d agree to voluntarily restrict certain gun sales to those under age 21 until legislation is passed.
