As a student, I want to know more about the security system installed at my school. It’s not clear how to refer to it. In some cases school authorities call it video and in other just still shots. What about audio, color, date, time, location, number of devices? As to the school policies regarding the use of it, we are told that students and parents are not allowed to see what the camera registers; only school authorities and attorneys may see. But we have a right to request such evidence from a school device.
Recorded information is important, as is a written record of events, because it is so easy to forget details. If we are going to maintain a healthy school environment, everyone must feel free to express themselves and for accurate facts they need records. In fact, learning how to overcome stage fright and express themselves in public is a very important part of education and excellent preparation for life in a democratic society.
Superintendent Ford is a great listener and his availability to us has been well appreciated but that is also our main problem. We leave satisfied after being able to express our grievances openly only to learn later that our effort was in vain because it was not recorded.
It's exhausting to have to express our concerns over and over reliving the events while recounting the facts to everyone who has the best interest in resolving the case and sympathizing with our cause. Many just give up for this reason. Authorities without claims in writing can't provide for accurate solutions. Superintendent Ford should record each claim at the moment with the claimant’s signature of approval just as is done with many teachers’ conferences.
If you feel overwhelmed, seek help from a family member, a friend or an acquaintance who can help listen to your story and write it down for you.
I am willing to help anyone who needs help in this regard whether it is for themselves and/or the school environment in general.
We clearly need to know more about our rights.
Joaquin Olmedo, 9th grade BHS
joaquinnicolasolmedo@hotmail.com
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