Parents demand urgent safety measures after bomb threats and violence at Montgomery County schools

The Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Board of Education convened on January 9, 2025, to address pressing safety concerns raised by parents and community members regarding school security and student safety protocols. The meeting featured a series of testimonies highlighting incidents of violence and the perceived inadequacies of current safety measures.

The session began with a discussion on the implementation of an ID policy aimed at enhancing security in schools. A student representative emphasized that while the policy was a step forward, its effectiveness was undermined by inconsistent enforcement and a lack of incentives for students to wear their IDs regularly. The student proposed expanding the ID system to include access to hygiene products and school supplies, thereby providing a practical reason for students to carry their IDs.

Following this, several parents voiced their concerns about specific incidents at local schools. One parent recounted a serious threat made by a student at 7 Locks Elementary, who had a documented history of violence. The parent criticized the lack of consequences for the threatening behavior, arguing that restorative justice practices had failed to protect students. This sentiment was echoed by others who called for more stringent safety measures, including the presence of School Resource Officers (SROs) in elementary schools to ensure rapid responses to potential threats.

Another parent highlighted the need for improved crisis communication systems, noting that many elementary schools lack adequate cell service, which hampers the ability to call for help during emergencies. This parent urged the board to allocate resources for emergency alert buttons and other safety tools.

The issue of fencing around school grounds was also raised, particularly at Harriet Tubman Elementary School, where parents expressed concerns about the lack of secure play areas. They called for a comprehensive fencing solution to protect students from external threats and ensure a safe environment during recess.

As the meeting progressed, the board members were urged to take immediate action to address these safety concerns, with several speakers emphasizing that the current policies were insufficient to protect students from potential violence. The testimonies underscored a growing demand for enhanced security measures, including standardized security assessments across all schools.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted significant community anxiety regarding school safety and the urgent need for MCPS to reassess its security protocols. Parents and community members are calling for tangible changes to ensure a safer learning environment for all students, emphasizing that the well-being of children must be the highest priority for the school board. The board is expected to consider these concerns as they plan future safety initiatives and budget allocations.