Derby public schools now have an added layer of security.
Each public school in Derby will now have an armed security officer patrolling the hallways and school grounds. They will be responsible for safeguarding and protecting the school community.
After some of the school shootings over the past few years, a lot of people said, why not just hire veterans or retired police officers as armed school guards? They’re already trained with firearms. That is exactly what Derby decided to do.
Students finally got to meet the guys they’ve been hearing about for months: The school district’s armed security guards.
“It does make kids feel much more safer and it makes it much easier to learn,” said Derby High Sophomore Kaylee Olenoski.
“I think a little extra security can never hurt,” said Derby High Senior Ryan Callaghan. “It’s comforting to have someone that we can trust that can control a situation.”
These men have plenty of experience doing just that. Each has a lengthy law enforcement background. John Serra will be guarding Derby High School. He was in the Air Force, then spent 24 years working for the State Police.
“After 9/11 I was stationed in Bridgeport at some of the schools down there and it was actually one of the most rewarding times of my life,” Serra said.
He and his colleagues will not be acting as sworn police officers, but they will be armed and patrolling the school and its grounds, paid for mostly by grants obtained by the city and Board of Education.
“I think just recognizing the changing environment and seeing the world that we live in and the sheer amount of shootings that were happening in schools,” explained Board of Education Chair Jim Gildea. “We thought we just wanted to add in an extra layer of security.”
Police officials will also be working with school administration and staff to ensure a safe and positive school environment for students and staff alike.
It’s only coincidence that their first official day on the job is also the first school day since the latest high profile mass shooting. That is certainly something on everyone’s mind.
“In light of what happened in Pittsburgh, I think it’s a great idea,” said parent Rob Hyder. “It’s a long time coming. I think every school should have this in every city and district across the country.”
“It’s always good just in case an outside threat comes with how everything has been going with all the other schools around,” said Derby High Junior Madison Kobal. “It’s just a lot nicer having someone around that we know we can count on.”
They have hired 3 of those security guards already, but they are looking hire at least two more. You have to have at least 15 years experience in law enforcement. To apply for a job, click here.