LARGO, Fla. – Thousands of students across Pinellas County headed back to school for the new academic year on Monday and were greeted with many changes to help protect their safety in wake of the Parkland tragedy in February.
District officials say all schools will have a single point of entry to better monitor who enters campus.
Additionally, there will be an armed security officer or School Resource Officer at every school in the district.
School leaders and staff have also taken part in active shooter training and mental health awareness.
Pinellas County Schools police chief Luke Williams says it’s been a challenge to revamp the district’s security plans with limited financial resources, but it’s worth it for the safety of the children.
“There may be some changes, things they need to get used to, or things we'll tweak down the line…We want them to know their kids will be safe,” said Williams.
Superintendent Mike Grego added that no cuts have been made due to the increased cost of security as mandated by the state.
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