School makes changes to increase security

Students and parents will notice some significant changes at Carson High School when classes resume Aug. 23.

From closing the campus for freshmen to changing the traffic circle in the front of the school to one-way, officials say they are attempting to increase security there.

Perhaps the most notable for students will be the policy prohibiting freshmen from leaving campus during lunch and other breaks.

"We want to promote the idea of staying on campus," said Principal Ron Beck. "We want to keep the freshmen on campus, keep them involved and part of the school."

He said this year will be an experiment to see how quickly and efficiently the school district's new food services program can feed the students during the 35-minute lunch break.

If it goes well, he said, the campus could close in the future to all students.

"Security is a huge issue," Beck said. "We don't know who is coming in and out with these kids. With a closed campus, no one leaves but no one comes in either."

He said closing the campus wouldn't have as much of an impact as some might think because a recent study showed only about 300 to 400 of the school's 1,600 students leave for lunch.

Changes in traffic flow in front of the school will also help increase security, Beck said.

Traffic is now limited to one direction to enter and exit the school. Cars must enter through the south entrance and exit to the north.

"We'll be able to ID cars that come in," Beck said. "We have security cameras and now we'll be able to see the license plate if there are any issues."

Arrows have been painted on the pavement to direct traffic flow, and signs are expected to be installed next week informing students and visitors of the change.

Students leaving at lunch will also be required to show a student identification card before leaving campus. Freshmen will be issued a special ID card.