Portable Classrooms Arrive at Apalachee High School as Board Considers Security Upgrades

     In the wake of the tragic mass shooting at Apalachee High School in September 2024, the Barrow County School System is implementing several changes to enhance safety and accommodate students affected by the incident. As of January 2025, portable classrooms are being introduced at Apalachee High School, while the school board continues to evaluate additional security measures. 

     The Barrow County Board of Education has approved the installation of temporary classroom pods for Apalachee students. This decision comes as more than 30,000 square feet of the school building remains closed off following the shooting incident. Students and staff are preparing to move into these portable classrooms this week, providing a temporary solution to ensure continuity of education.

In response to the tragic event, the Barrow County School System has already taken several steps to improve security:

1. Increased School Resource Officers: The board unanimously approved hiring additional school police officers, increasing the number from 17 to 25 across the district.
2. Officer Distribution: At least two officers will be stationed at every high school, with one at each middle and elementary school.
3. Centegix Alert System: The district already utilizes the Centegix emergency alert system, which was credited with saving lives during the Apalachee High School shooting.

The school board is actively engaging the community in discussions about further security enhancements:

1. Safety Survey: Barrow County Schools has launched an online school safety survey to gather input on campus improvements.
2. Topics Under Consideration: The survey covers various safety aspects, including weapons detection systems, bag policies, student ID badges, mental health support, and security personnel.
3. Community Input: The board plans to share the survey responses in January as they work on implementing additional improvements.

Despite the measures taken, some community members express concerns about the pace of changes:

• Parents have voiced the need for more immediate action, with some calling for metal detectors1.
• The emotional impact on students and families remains significant, with many still in the process of healing.

     As the Barrow County School System continues to navigate the aftermath of the tragedy, the introduction of portable classrooms and ongoing security discussions demonstrate a commitment to both educational continuity and enhanced safety measures. The community's input through the safety survey will play a crucial role in shaping future security upgrades at Apalachee High School and across the district