South Louisiana Schools Add Bullet-Proof Vestibules: Are They Enough to Protect Our Kids?
Louisiana parents have continued to express concern about gun violence in schools. Firearms are the leading cause of death among children and teens in Louisiana, with nearly 100 lives lost every year.
Lafayette Parish teamed up with local stakeholders to bolster school security across five schools: Lafayette Middle, Northside High, Scott Middle, James Wallace Elementary, and Woodvale Elementary.
The Bulletproof Vestibule Project In Acadiana
These specialized entryways act as the first line of defense in the event of an active shooter. Now that the open-wall inspection has been completing they are adding bulletproof windows and doors.
These vestibules are designed to prevent unauthorized visitors from getting in the school buildings. They are intended to create a safe buffer zone between the exterior and interior of the schools, hopefully making it harder for any potential threat to enter the building.
Acadiana Parent Reactions: Mixed Emotions and Concerns
The announcement of installing bulletproof vestibules in local schools has sparked a range of reactions from parents in Acadiana, who have shared their concerns on social media. Many are torn between relief at the added security and a deep sense of unease about what this says about the world their children are growing up in.
Olivia M. expressed frustration with current safety measures, commenting, “Or they could just let teachers carry,” suggesting that more aggressive forms of protection might be preferable. Other parents, like Marissa F. and Sarita S. , were simply unsettled by the idea, calling it “disturbing.”
Samantha G. voiced the grim reality many parents feel: “So sad that this is what we have to do to protect our children while they have to attend school!” Her sentiment is echoed by Candace M. , who shared that the situation “felt sick honestly.”
Many parents don't think these new safety measures are enough. Chelsie S. pointed out that "it’s only at the front of school. Most school shooters do not come through the front." Katie H. emphasized that she’s “glad I homeschool my kids."
It is evident that many parents are on the fence about the project, but there is one thing everyone can agree on: we must protect our students.
While the project is aimed at enhancing safety measures on campus, it also reminds us of the harsh reality.
See Something, Say Something
Students are urged to anonymously report any safety concerns on the Safe Schools Louisiana app, which has already proven to stop violence before it starts or contact local law enforcement.
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Gallery Credit: Rob Kirkpatrick