Trustees collect opinions on arming school workers

Oconeeans are sounding off on a proposal to complement the county school resource officer program by arming selected district employees who would undergo firearm training. Those opinions are arriving by email and by vocal expressions, such as those heard last night by the county trustees. Before turning to a procession of speakers Dr. Michael Thorsland, district superintendent, announced a change in the Armed Alliance School Program proposal first aired during a meeting last week. Thorsland said the component of allowing employees to carry concealed weapons has been replaced by locked school safes from which guns would accessed in the event of a shooting. He also announced the earliest the trustees will vote to implement “ASAP”—Armed School Alliance Program—would be their May 21 meeting. A couple of last night’s speakers suggested the decision is too great for it to rest solely with the hands of government. Seneca resident Carl Hetzel called for a referendum of the voters. Michael Hester urged the trustees to engage in a back-and-forth, open dialogue with the public. Others, however, are opposed to arming school employees. Annette Burney recommended money instead be spent to hire additional school resource officers. Another speaker said metal detectors should be placed in all schools.