Letter: 'Safety is Highest Priority' Says Kings Park Superintendent

The letter below was written by Susan Agruso, superintendent of the Kings Park Central School District

To the Editor:

Safety in our schools is our highest priority, and I believe it is important to provide factual information regarding yesterday’s potential threat to the high school.

The police came to the high school yesterday morning and informed us that they had received information that a potential threat may have been made. Police officers also went to the home of the individual involved and detained him while their investigation proceeded. In consultation with the police, we determined that there was no immediate threat to the students or staff and a lockdown was unnecessary since the individual was detained by the police. However, we alerted security, provided information to staff regarding the identity of the individual, and ensured the building was secure. Later in the day the police determined that no real threat had been made.

Mr. Bracco, the high school principal, called high school parents to explain the reason for the police being at the school for an extended period of time and to further assure parents that their children were safe. Our students, staff, and parents were able to continue their normal routines throughout the day without unnecessary fear or alarm because of the swift action of the police and the appropriate response of the administration.

We have emergency response procedures in place and those procedures are reviewed regularly to ensure they meet up-to-date standards for best practices. Some procedures may vary by school due to the age of the students and the physical layout of the building. We conduct drills each year and make necessary modifications. For safety reasons, we cannot publish detailed information regarding the safety precautions we take. If you have concerns, please speak with the principal of your child’s school. If you have suggestions for enhancing our safety procedures, please let me know.

Sincerely,
Susan A. Agruso, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools