You may have noticed the addition of over one hundred cameras this year at Schreiber, both in and outside the building.  These cameras are one of the many new measures Schreiber has taken to improve the security of our school amid rising concerns over school shootings.  Some of the other measures include a one-button lockdown system, enforcement of the lanyard policy, and a 911 alert system.  

“They should have already had these measures in place.  I’m glad they’re doing something to try to protect the student body,” said senior Hannah Roth.  

The new digital camera system connects to a one-button lockdown system.  When the lockdown system is triggered, it gives police instant access to all the cameras, so that they can quickly determine the location of the threat to take control of the situation.  

Another measure that has been put into place is that students are no longer allowed to linger in the hallways, and may only use the main entrance to go in or out of the school building during school hours.  This ensures that all the other entrances are locked to outsiders.  

Not everyone agrees with all of the security measures being taken. 

 “I think it’s good that they are making an effort to improve the safety at our school, but I feel that the security cameras are an invasion of privacy.  The cameras and the restrictions on being in the hallways makes me think the school is going too far in restricting our actions in the name of safety,” said senior Nina Jawitz.  

The school tested out lanyards with ID cards last year, and officially rolled out the policy this school year.  The purpose of the lanyards is to quickly identify students, teachers and administrators to determine possible security threats.  

“We have seen great success in having students bring their ID cards to school and showing them in the morning.  The next step is wearing ID cards throughout the day,” said Mr. Miller, who oversees security.  

While many students don’t mind the new ID card policy, others question it’s effectiveness.  

“I don’t think the lanyards have been that effective because students don’t seem to take them seriously and think it’s a drag.  I do think the effort is still important though and it’s better than nothing,” said junior Julia Carlton. 
This year, our school and the Nassau County Police Department have collaborated to establish a 911 alert system called RAVE.  Key staff can immediately connect to 911 and send alerts to police and other staff within the district with an app.  The app allows them to communicate one on one with police to relate crucial information. 
Security guards, all of whom are former law enforcement officers, patrol the school grounds to secure it, and this year they have expanded their patrols inside the building.  

Finally, students can anonymously report any threats to safety and alert the school using the Reportit.com website or app.  

“In the end we have to work together.  The safety of the school requires the cooperation of students and staff,” said Mr. Miller.