New Kensington-Arnold reviewing security procedures after student finds live round in high school
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How a live firearm round got into Valley High School in New Kensington remains under investigation and “raises quite a few questions,” according to New Kensington-Arnold Superintendent Chris Sefcheck.
“These questions are the foundation for a review of our processes and procedures for school safety and security,” he said Wednesday.
A senior found the 9 mm round Tuesday morning in the men’s restroom next to the main office by the cafeteria, Sefcheck said. The student immediately took it to Assistant Principal Jeff Thimons, who locked down the school.
New Kensington police used their dogs and additional dogs from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police to search the school. The lockdown was lifted shortly before noon with no other ammunition or weapons found.
Other than law enforcement, weapons are prohibited on school grounds, Sefcheck said.
On any given day, a variety of events happen after school hours, from athletics to outside groups using district facilities, Sefcheck said.
“As we navigate through the review of the event that precipitated this, we will take a deep look at all of our policies, procedures and processes,” he said. “All of this as a measure to grow and improve so that it becomes more difficult for things like this to happen.”
School board President Tim Beckes said the board takes the safety and security of students and staff seriously.
“We have regular discussions about the topic and will continue to do so in light of recent events,” he said.