One notable issue discussed was a recent incident involving 18 students that led to heightened concerns about school safety. Superintendent Dr. Dianne Kelly clarified that misinformation had spread regarding the severity of the incident, noting that no staff members were knocked unconscious nor were there any hospitalizations. She emphasized that each student involved would face disciplinary actions tailored to their individual circumstances, including long-term suspensions and potential expulsions, while considering any special educational needs.

The committee’s conversation underscored the necessity of maintaining a safe educational environment. One speaker stressed that educators should focus on teaching rather than managing violent confrontations, advocating for the presence of trained professionals. This sentiment was echoed by several committee members who highlighted the effectiveness of the current SROs but recognized the need for additional support. The idea of hiring a fourth SRO or employing retired police officers was proposed to ensure a consistent security presence, particularly during dismissal times when issues are more likely to arise.

Mayor Brian Arrigo, who also serves as the chair of the school committee, reiterated the importance of proactive measures and parental engagement. He emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for disruptive behavior and called for increased parental involvement, urging parents to take responsibility for their children’s actions. The mayor acknowledged the changing landscape of school discipline and the need to adapt responses to ensure a safe educational environment, addressing the small percentage of students whose behavior negatively impacts the overall school climate.

In addition to discussing the roles of SROs and the potential for increased police presence, the committee explored other security enhancements. Suggestions included engaging a security company and employing ex-military personnel, though concerns were raised about “militarizing” the schools. The committee agreed on the importance of a holistic review of the existing security infrastructure, involving input from the entire school community—students, families, and educators—to better understand and address security dynamics.

The meeting also highlighted the partnership with the Revere Police Department, particularly the deployment of a Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) to the high school. This initiative aims to provide additional support and resources to students, fostering a supportive atmosphere and addressing issues before they escalate. The committee discussed the benefits of having these professionals work on cases while being present in the school, emphasizing the importance of building positive relationships with students.

The role of parental accountability was a recurring theme throughout the meeting. Questions were raised about how the police department manages parent accountability and the potential involvement of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) in cases of repeated problematic behavior. The committee stressed the need for parents or caregivers to attend re-entry meetings when students are suspended.

Community involvement was also discussed as a vital component of school safety. The committee proposed providing quarterly updates to the community about ways to engage with students, such as mentorship programs and volunteer opportunities. Successful initiatives in other regions, like fathers serving as volunteer hall monitors, were mentioned as potential models to reduce violence in schools.