ATLANTA — Atlanta Public Schools is unveiling new security measures in an effort to keep students safe.
You can't miss the enhancements at Frederick Wilson Benteen Elementary School. They start at the steel front door and range to bulletproof glass, all part of the refurbished front entrance, a project that cost millions.
“Now we have controlled access for parents and visitors to get into the building. So, we have a safe space for students to learn," Principal Andrew Lovett said, adding, "You have to badge in as an employee or a visitor has to call and get badged into the building. So you go from the outside to the waiting area. You’ve got to be badged from the waiting area to the main office and then from the main office to the building."
Being able to safely screen visitors before they enter is a plus, but fifth-grader Lizbeth Caracso says one thing really stands out.
“We heard that it was bulletproof. I’m happy that we’re getting this new upgrade," Carasco said.
Carasco said it's comforting to know that there’s a way to keep bad things from happening.
“I feel protected. I feel like if something bad were to happen, but I hope nothing bad happens. I wish that we’ll be safe," Carasco said.
Parent Amberly Toole says she’s glad to see district leaders putting her children’s safety at the top of the list.
“We’ve all seen around the nation different tragic events and nevertheless thought, this is my child, so being a constant volunteer at the school and seeing how many people need to come in and out of the school, adding these measures really gives me a peace of mind," Toole said.
Benteen Elementary is the first of about 60 schools that will see the installation of the new safety measures.
Most of the upgrades will be completed by the end of 2024.