Woodland Park School District putting armed security in schools

WOODLAND PARK, Colo. (KRDO) - Woodland Park School District Re-2 announced it's putting armed security in schools.

In a statement released Thursday morning, the district said it's "integrated trained and certified armed security personnel into its safety and security plan." According to the WPSD, this decision was made after "careful consideration and consultation with law enforcement professionals."

The district said armed security personnel must complete "rigorous training programs from law enforcement or other specialized training" to ensure that they have the necessary expertise to respond effectively to potential security situations. Their presence will add to the district's security measures and be an additional resource.

WPSD did acknowledge that introducing armed security might prompt questions and concerns within the district's community. However, the district said this decision is "part of a comprehensive strategy that aligns with the district's overarching goal of maintaining a safe learning environment for students and staff."

Read the full statement below:

Woodland Park School District (WPSD) announces an important aspect of its ongoing commitment to ensure the safety and security of its students and staff members.

In line with its unwavering dedication to maintain a secure learning environment, the WPSD Board of Education and District Administration have diligently reviewed and updated the district’s safety protocols. As a result, they are announcing a significant step to enhance the safety measures within the school district.

After careful consideration and consultation with law enforcement professionals, WPSD has integrated trained and certified armed security personnel into its safety and security plan. These dedicated professionals must have completed rigorous training programs from law enforcement or other specialized training, ensuring they possess the necessary expertise to respond effectively to potential security situations.

It is important to emphasize that these security personnel are highly trained professionals dedicated to upholding the highest safety and security standards. Their presence will complement the efforts of the district’s existing security measures and will be an additional resource to ensure a rapid and coordinated response to potential threats. The students' and staff members' safety remains a paramount concern for WPSD.

WPSD understands that the introduction of armed security personnel may prompt questions or concerns. WPSD is committed to providing a safe educational environment for its students. This decision is part of a comprehensive strategy that aligns with the district’s overarching goal of maintaining a safe learning environment for students and staff.

Woodland Park School District Re-2