Mass. Schools Step Up Security After Newtown Shooting
NATICK (CBS) - Many parents couldn't help but feel anxious sending their children back to school after the shooting in Newtown. School leaders anticipated that and were ready to reassure them.
Principal Ian Kelley says they've changed their front door procedures at Bennett-Hemenway Elementary School in Natick.
In light of the horrific tragedy in Connecticut, schools across the commonwealth are stepping up their emergency procedures. Principal Kelley has moved his office into the school's main lobby so he can safeguard the door.
"My office is the main lobby and you know that's how it should be," says Kelley. "We will keep this school safe no matter what."
Patrol officers at the school are on high alert and many schools are now fully staffed with counselors and psychologists to help students cope. Natick Public Schools Psychologist Janet Schaeffer says it is important for parents to talk with their kids.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Bernice Corpuz reports
Podcast
10-year-old Connor is a fourth grader at Bennett-Hemenway and has talked about the tragedy with his mother.
Connor says, "What's going through my mind is like, 'what happened?"
The students are not the only ones affected.
"It feels different for the adults in the building," says Principal Kelley. "The teachers, I met with them this morning, they're sad and they're a little on edge."
