COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus City Schools announced Monday that staff, board members and attendees will be required to go through a security screening before all Board of Education meetings.
The new security measure will begin Aug. 6 to “proactively address potential concerns,” according to the district. All guests, CCS staff and board members will be subject to the screenings, which includes the use of handheld wands and walk-through detectors.
Board members will be holding office hours from 5:15 to 5:45 p.m. before the business meeting to allow community members to engage and ask questions and share thoughts or centers.
The Board Business Meetings will begin at 6 p.m. at the South Administrative Building, located at 3700 S. High Street, Room 825. All attendees for office hours or regular board business meetings will be required to enter through the walk-through detectors.
Columbus Board of Education President Christina Vera said with the rise in safety concerns nationally, that it is crucial to implement enhanced security measures.
“These protocols are essential to providing a secure environment where everyone can feel safe and focus on their education and work. By taking these steps, we are proactively addressing potential threats and fostering a culture of safety within our school community," Vera said.
Before the meeting, CCS Safety & Security staff will direct all guests to the meeting room.
“We work closely with the Board of Education to implement effective safety measures and stay ahead of potential risks. Our commitment to maintaining a safe and secure school district is unwavering, and we will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of safety and security,” said Safety & Security Director Chris Baker. “As our team continues to review and research best practices, it is understood that any new protocol will have an initial impact however, it is important to know that good security is never convenient.”
