During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the safety and security of students in local schools, particularly focusing on Lowell High School. Concerns were raised by committee members regarding the adequacy of current safety measures and the need for a comprehensive audit of the school district's security systems.

Committee member Mr. Conway emphasized the importance of reassessing safety protocols, noting that the last district-wide safety assessment was conducted in 2016. He argued that significant changes in the intervening years necessitate a new evaluation to identify potential improvements. Conway proposed moving forward with a Request for Proposal (RFP) to engage subject matter experts for this audit.

However, Superintendent's response indicated skepticism about the necessity of such an audit at this time. He highlighted that safety measures are continuously monitored and improved through the efforts of a dedicated safety coordinator and regular unannounced audits by the police department. The superintendent pointed out that while audits can be beneficial, they often come with substantial costs, referencing a recent audit in Worcester that exceeded $300,000.

The discussion revealed a divide among committee members regarding the urgency and financial implications of conducting a new safety audit. While some members supported the idea of a thorough review, others expressed concerns about the potential costs and the effectiveness of existing safety measures. The meeting concluded without a definitive decision, leaving the future of the proposed audit uncertain as the committee continues to weigh the importance of student safety against budgetary constraints.