While a series of bomb threats phoned into the Chehalis School District in the past year were rattling and disconcerting, they were largely harmless.
As detailed by stories in The Chronicle, the perpetrator in each case likely used computer software to enact what amounted to more of a prank than a serious threat.
School officials don’t have the luxury of making that designation, though. Ever since, leaders have been making wise, measured moves toward ensuring the safety of the student population.
There have been at least two meetings focused on the topic of security. In one case, the Chehalis chief of police provided a presentation to parents, teachers and members of the public. Another gathering brought school administrators, law enforcement officers and security specialists from throughout the region.
On Thursday, The Chronicle featured news on the district’s next practical step — the hiring of a school security officer to roam the halls, build relationships with students and provide another layer of safety for our youth.
Todd Thornburg, a 1983 W.F. West graduate, is already at work after inking a deal with the school district to make him the first law enforcement presence since his brother worked as a school resource officer for the district six years ago.
Placing officers in schools is, of course, not a new concept.
The Centralia School District, and others, have long taken advantage of positive relationships with the local police department to keep a presence in schools. It can be unsettling to see a gun-toting officer of the law in schools for older generations unburdened by the unpredictable nature of violence in today’s schools, but it’s a necessary step for larger districts.
Chehalis chose to hire a private officer in Thornburg, who is unaffiliated with any law enforcement agency.
The district saved nearly $20,000 by going that route after previously budgeting $70,000 to pay the Chehalis Police Department for coverage.
Beyond the wisdom of simply hiring an officer, the district appears to have found a great individual.
As an alumnus of the school district, Thornburg is personally invested beyond what many law enforcement officers might be initially. He’s also a parent with a long and successful career in the Washington State Patrol behind him.
“As a parent, you want your kids to be safe — not just safe from an active shooter,” he said. “As a parent, I would want (security) at the school and I want teachers trained to protect my kid whether it’s fire, earthquake or an active shooter.”
With shortages in funding for public education, it’s heartening to see the Chehalis School District applying its resources to one of the most essential aspects of school in the 21st century — safety.
