Parents Demand More Preventative Measures and Transparency Following Deadly School Shooting
Several concerned parents in an Iowa town are calling for increased preventative measures and transparency from school officials as the community grapples with the aftermath of a tragic school shooting. The parents voiced their concerns during a recent school board meeting, which took place just one day after the death of Principal Dan Marburger, who was critically injured in the shooting.
Grace Castro, one of the parents in attendance, criticized the school district’s policies, stating that “lives were lost due to our lack of preventative measures.” She suggested the installation of metal detectors at school entrances, the implementation of a temporary remote learning option, and the enforcement of a clear-bag policy as the bare minimum actions that could be taken.
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Mark Drahos echoed Castro’s sentiments, calling for additional preventative measures. While acknowledging that it may be impossible to please everyone, Drahos expressed his belief that ideas such as a single-point entry to buildings, a no-bag policy, and increased security measures, such as hall monitors, should be considered.
Joseph Swanson emphasized the need for an enhancement of security measures and mental health support, acknowledging that there is no easy fix to the problem at hand. Swanson urged school officials to address these issues promptly and comprehensively.
The tragic incident occurred in the Perry High School cafeteria, where students were having breakfast on their first day back from winter break. The shooting later spilled outside the cafeteria but remained contained within the north end of the school. Ahmir Jolliff, an 11-year-old sixth-grader, tragically lost his life, while seven others, including Marburger, were wounded.
Marburger, described by the Iowa Department of Public Safety as a selfless individual who placed himself in harm’s way to protect his students, will be mourned by the community. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has ordered all flags to be lowered to half-staff in his honor.
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In light of Marburger’s passing, the district’s reopening plan has been put on hold. School officials are now seeking guidance from law enforcement and safety experts as they work to develop a comprehensive plan that ensures the safety of all students and staff members.
The community continues to offer counseling services for those affected by the incident, and extracurricular competitions for middle and high school students are set to resume shortly.
As the community mourns the loss of Principal Marburger and reflects on the devastating impact of the school shooting, parents are urging the school district to conduct a thorough review of the events and implement robust safety procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
NOTE: The associated press reporter Josh Funk from Omaha, Nebraska contributed to this report.
Jack Dura, The Associated Press.
