Port Jefferson Schools Eye Tighter Security After Connecticut Shooting

A shooting spree at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT, that left 27 people dead, 18 of them children, has school officials in Port Jefferson re-examining safety measurements.

"Please know that the safety and welfare of our students and staff remains at the forefront of our thoughts in Port Jefferson," Superintendent Ken Bossert wrote in a letter sent out to parents this afternoon. "There have been a number of recent changes to procedures and equipment in order to bolster the security of our facilities. That said, we will continue to investigate ways that security can be tightened."

His district already has security measures in place. "All members of our faculty and staff have been asked to continue to: question individuals who lack District I.D., remind students not to open doors for anyone, point out any lapses in security they see to building administration, closely monitor all students as they travel between hallways (and buildings at the HS), etc," Bossert said.

In an email to Patch and his letter, the superintendent expressed his concern for the people of Newtown and their children calling it a "terrible day."

"As the details of this horrible act continue to be updated, our hearts go out to the victims and their families," he said.

Bossert also assured parents that the school puts the safety of its students first.

"The events that took place this morning are nothing short of tragic," he said. "While it would be foolish to think we can ever 100 percent protect ourselves from those looking to do us harm, we must feel 100 percent confident we are doing all we can in a proactive way."

Superintendents in other school districts did not immediately return a request for comment.

Do you feel there are enough school safety measures in place in our area? Please leave your thoughts below.