'If you see something, say something:' citizens play vital role in school safety

Spaulding High School, where Police Chief Gary Boudreau, right held a safety seminar on Friday; at left, Superintendent Jared Fulgoni (Courtesy photos)

ROCHESTER - Rochester Police Chief Gary Boudreau met with Spaulding High School faculty on Friday for a safety seminar in the wake of the Minneapolis school shootings earlier this week, but Rochester Schools Superintendent Jared Fulgoni says the best preventative measure against such violence "still continues to be our students, families, and citizens."

"The old adage of 'see something say something" has never been more true," Fulgoni added. "If someone notices a change in a loved-one's behavior, or sees postings that threaten violence, or has concerns that someone may be a danger to themselves or others, please reach out for help."

Boudreau's presence at Spaulding drew high praise from the school leaders,

"His guidance, expertise, and dedication to keeping our school community safe are truly appreciated," a Spaulding High School post on Facebook read.

Fulgoni said soon after the shooting at the Annunciation Catholic Church and school that left eight-year-old and 10-year-old boys dead, he reached out to Boudreau to discuss what possible safety enhancement might be considered.

Some of the safety measures already in place include uniformed police officers (SRO's) in the schools, locked and secured vestibules, electronic access controls, emergency plans, and staff incident training.

"As a school superintendent and educator my heart breaks to learn of another senseless act of violence against a school," Fulgoni added. "After each of these tragedies, schools across the nation try to use them as opportunities to evaluate their own safety and security measures. Only by working together can we help keep our schools safe."