Our community continues to reel from the trauma of recent and ongoing school shootings in Jefferson County. As a parent, I am profoundly concerned about the safety of my children and every student attending school in Colorado. This is not merely a matter of policy—it's about the peace of mind every child and parent deserves.

In light of the recent increase in school shootings, safety within school grounds has become a paramount concern. It is crucial that we prioritize our children's protection by deploying comprehensive and effective safety measures in all Colorado schools.

We petition for the immediate implementation of School Resource Officers (SROs), essential mental health services, and the installation of metal detectors across all educational institutions in our state. Current data from the National Center for Education Statistics indicate that nearly 79% of public schools in the U.S. currently use security cameras to monitor schools, while 94% have controlled access to buildings during school hours. However, we must go further to ensure the safety of our children.

School Resource Officers can play a critical role in crisis situations and provide a sense of security for both students and teachers. Their presence acts as a deterrent and assists in the immediate response to any threat.

Providing mental health services is not only a supportive measure but a preventative one, addressing issues before they escalate. According to the American Psychological Association, early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of youth violence.

Finally, the installation of metal detectors can be a practical barrier against unauthorized items entering school premises, thereby providing an additional layer of physical security that can prevent potentially dangerous situations.

By signing this petition, you are urging local government officials, school boards, and principals to act decisively for the safety of our children. Our schools must be safe havens for learning and growth, not places of fear. Let us join together in demanding that the state of Colorado acts swiftly to implement these critical safety measures. Please sign this petition and help protect our children’s future.