'We need solutions.' Parents press Bellport school leaders over safety concerns
South Country school officials say a zero-tolerance policy will be enforced as families seek reassurance about student safety.
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Parents voiced concerns about student safety during a South Country school board meeting Wednesday after multiple incidents at Bellport High School prompted police responses last week.
“The main thing is the safety of the kids," said South Country parent Kenya Augustin. "What are they going to do to make sure our kids are protected in school?”
Community members attended the meeting seeking answers about student safety following the incidents.
“As a mom, I don’t feel comfortable or at ease when I’m at work while my son's at school. God forbid something happens,” Augustin said.
Interim Superintendent John Dolan addressed the issue during the meeting, emphasizing the district’s responsibility to respond to student misconduct while protecting students’ rights.
“Children make mistakes. Our job is to try and fix them,” Dolan said.
According to Dolan, police were called to the high school twice last week. He said charges will be filed, but noted that everyone involved is entitled to due process.
District leaders reiterated that the board maintains a zero-tolerance policy and intends to enforce it by preventing repeat offenders from returning to school.
“If you come to school to disrupt and put other people at harm, you will not be welcomed,” Dolan said.
Board officials also said parents can report incidents directly to police and allow law enforcement to handle those matters.
“If your actions can harm others, we can’t have you. And the punishments will be swift,” Dolan said.
Despite those assurances, some parents said they remain dissatisfied with the board’s response. They pointed to reduced security staffing following budget cuts approved last year. The board said the number of security guards in the district decreased from 26 to 22 this school year.
“We need solutions. We need transparency. We need to get things done,” Augustin said.
