Fenton, Lake Fenton Schools Increase Security After Sandy Hook Shootings

Fenton and Lake Fenton Schools have taken extra security measures since the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.

Lake Fenton superintendent Wayne Wright said schools have been implementing a modified lockdown. He said classrooms doors are usually equipped with a magnet that prevents them from latching, however, those magnets have been removed and the doors have been locked. Wright said West Shore Elementary school's main doors have been locked and people have been entering through a buzzer system.

“We have had heightened security. We are keeping a close watch on everything that is going on,” Wright said.

He added that officers from Genesee County Sheriff’s Department have been around the building much more since the shootings. Wright said a letter was sent to parents, notifying them of the extra security measures. The letter also noted that Lake Fenton teachers have completed an active shooting training, which teaches them what to do if there is an active shooter in the building.

Wright said principals have fielded around 70 calls this week from parents with concerns.

School officials will continue to explore ways to improve security, Wright said. Administrators discussed the issue during a two and half hour meeting Tuesday.

“We will continue to look at security measures and possible changes in security. It’s been a big discussion,” Wright said.

Fenton Schools Superintendent Tim Jalkanen did not immediately return a phone message.

Fenton Police Chief Rick Aro said officers have been patrolling the Fenton schools more frequently.

“We’ve been spending a lot of time at schools,” Aro said. “And we will continue to do so.”

You can follow all of Fenton Patch news with our daily newsletter.