Brockton School Committee Members Seek National Guard Assistance to Address School Violence
In a bold move, members of the Brockton School Committee have called on the governor’s office to deploy the National Guard to help address security concerns and growing violence at Brockton High School. The committee members propose that the National Guard act as substitute teachers and hall monitors in order to ensure the safety of the students.
The letter, signed by four out of the seven committee members, highlights the disturbing increase in incidents related to violence, security concerns, and substance abuse at the high school. They argue that the additional resources are necessary due to budget deficits and teacher shortages. However, not all city leaders are in agreement with this plan.
Ward 4 School Committee member Tony Rodrigues believes that bringing in the National Guard is crucial to ensure the safety of not only the high school but also the middle and elementary schools in the city. He argues that with the deficit that has created this mess, they are looking for support from the National Guard to act as substitute teachers and hall monitors.
On the other hand, Committee member Winthrop Farwell, Jr. opposes the idea, stating that soldiers in military field uniforms are not the answer. He believes that the teaching staff holds the key to creating a positive learning atmosphere and that their expertise should be valued and sought after.
Support for the request came from Ward 3 School Committee member Ana Oliver, who spoke at a press conference on Monday. She emphasized that they are not asking for a whole army to be deployed to their school but rather for support, especially considering the teacher shortage throughout Massachusetts.
The response from Governor Maura Healey’s Office indicates their commitment to ensuring that schools are safe and supportive environments. They are aware of the concerns raised about Brockton High School and are in touch with local officials.
This story is still developing, and 7NEWS will provide the latest updates both on-air and online. The request for National Guard assistance has sparked a heated debate among city leaders and school committee members, with differing opinions on how to address the issue of school violence. As the conversation continues, it remains to be seen what actions will be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the students in Brockton schools.
