The approaching start of the school year has a different feel for those attending Connetquot High School due to a violent attack plot that was exposed this summer.

Despite some uneasiness from students, Superintendent Alan Groveman is confident about the district's upgraded safety measures.

"We're feeling ready to open," he said during a tour of the school Thursday. "We're secure. We're comfortable."

Additional security cameras were installed, bringing the total to 30 at the high school and 100 across the district, Groveman said. The superintendent said two more security guards were hired and emergency procedures were reviewed and evaluated. GPS tracking devices were also installed in every school bus.

Don Flynn, a member of the school's security staff, is comfortable with the technological upgrades, yet stresses other factors in an emergency situation.

"We're pretty well covered throughout the high school," Flynn said. "But, again, we don't rely on the cameras exclusively. The backbone is the highly trained staff."

Revelations of a Columbine-like school attack plot fueled the district's increased security efforts. Two students, ages 15 and 17, allegedly planned to use firearms and other weapons to kill students and faculty.

The 15-year-old, whose identity News 12 Long Island is concealing because he is a minor, has pleaded guilty. His sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 27.

Michael McDonough, 17, is charged with conspiracy and is being held on $25,000 bail.

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