WESTMINSTER, Md. – In an effort to deter potential attackers, the Carroll County Board of Education met June 27 to debate buzzer systems, student uniforms and other methods of upgrading security.
Coordinator of School Security Larry Faries presented the committee’s list of recommendations to the board. Suggestions included requiring students to wear uniforms and installing cameras in all, not most, of the schools. Faries believes if students are restricted to khaki pants and white shirts, it will be more difficult to conceal weapons than in baggier clothes.
The board agreed to gradually phase-in cameras throughout the upcoming academic year on a school-by-school basis. Currently, most of the middle schools and all of the high schools have a camera system in place.
However, the board may not have the budget for a system-wide upgrade. Buzzer systems for visitors and video surveillance at main entrances do not come cheap. Assistant Superintendent of Administration Steve Guthrie estimates the expansion could cost $4 million.
Meanwhile, board members emphasized that students should remain aware of who enters their schools at all times.
