My son is a student in William Floyd High School, and a recent event has shocked our community and filled us parents with worry. A student, caught for an act as familiar as vaping, was surprisingly found in possession of a handgun when searched by security personnel. Should it not have been for the vaping misdemeanor, he could very well likely have still been carrying the lethal weapon undiscovered, and that's a frightening thought to reckon with.

Metal detectors have proven to be effective in confiscating weapons at school entrances. According to the National Institute of Justice, a study conducted in 2002 showed a marked decrease in the percentage of students carrying weapons to school in a district where metal detectors were installed. We want our schools to be spaces where young minds foster, and not grounds where fear and anxiety prevail.

We understand that implementing metal detectors involves resources. However, the safety of our children must be of principal concern to us. This measure not only ensures detection of weapons, but also acts as a deterrent for students considering bringing a weapon within the school premises.

We fervently ask you to consider this appeal, for all our sons and daughters studying in the William Floyd School District. We ask that you prioritize their safety and wellbeing and make our schools a secure environment for them to learn and grow. Let's put an end to the anxiety and start a safer chapter for all students. Please sign this petition and demand the implementation of metal detectors in every single school within the William Floyd School District.