The Milford Public Schools School Committee meeting on March 20, 2025, featured a passionate discussion on school security and staffing needs, led by long-time parent and volunteer Helene Ciccone. Ciccone expressed her concerns regarding the lack of campus aides in the schools, highlighting that the current security measures may not be sufficient to ensure student safety.
Ciccone noted that while there are staff members responsible for checking in visitors, the absence of dedicated campus aides—who would serve as additional eyes and ears throughout the school—poses a risk. She compared the situation to her own experience at Newton North High School, where a larger student body was supported by a team of campus aides. Ciccone revealed that the school administration, led by Josh, has requested additional security personnel for the past two years, but these requests have been repeatedly denied by the school committee.
In her remarks, Ciccone emphasized the importance of having adequate supervision to manage student behavior, particularly in high-traffic areas like bathrooms. She argued that without sufficient staff, the responsibility falls unfairly on teachers and administrators, which could compromise the safety and well-being of students.
The discussion underscored a growing concern among parents about school safety and the need for more comprehensive support systems within Milford Public Schools. The committee's response to these concerns and any potential actions to address staffing shortages will be closely watched by the community in the coming months.