CALDWELL, Idaho — The Caldwell School District has approved changes to its security protocols that allow security officers to access rifles, tasers, and pepper spray.
This decision, which came after the security firm requested more resources to ensure the safety of students and staff, was passed by the district’s board with a vote of 2-1, while two members abstained.
Jessica Watts, the district’s director of communication, emphasized that this policy change aims to enhance the security measures in place.
“This will allow our security guards with intermediate use of force to add to their hands on lethal force as well,” Watts said.
The updated policy comes amid the district’s transition from using school resource officers (SROs) to employing three dedicated security officers, a change implemented due to budget cuts following a failed levy.
During a recent board meeting, district leaders discussed whether to permit additional lethal weapons and intermediate force options on school grounds.
Eric Phillips, the director of student safety and emergency operations, addressed the board, highlighting the need for varied levels of response in the face of potential threats.
“There are things that can happen that require a higher level of force besides hands or physical control,” Phillips stated. He also noted that handguns, while effective, could be easily outmatched by an assailant armed with a rifle.
“Student and staff safety is our first priority here in the Caldwell school district,” Watts reiterated.
The approval of the addendum stipulates that security officers wishing to carry tasers or pepper spray must receive proper certification and training. Rifles will be securely stored in locked safes. While the new policy allows for these additions, it does not mandate that officers carry them.
"This doesn't require the security officers to have items such as tasers and pepper spray it just allows them the ability to purchase those items if they would like," said Watts.
In a future enhancement of security measures, the Caldwell School District will add a school resource officer (SRO) after receiving a state Department of Education grant, which will fund the role for three years.
The SRO will primarily serve Caldwell High School but will be available to assist at other schools as needed.
“He will have the ability to roam to any other school if he is needed to help and we are excited to continue our partnership Caldwell Police Department,” Watts said.