The Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School will remain closed on Tuesday, 21 January, as improved security measures are implemented following the discovery of a bullet on school grounds.
The ammunition was found in a student’s possession in the Quarter Campus (Campus Q) last week, after staff were alerted by a WhatsApp status.
The Department of Education closed all school campuses on Thursday and Friday, 16 and 17 January, to allow Alert Security Services and police to conduct a thorough sweep.
No weapons or contraband were found.
The school stayed closed on Monday, 20 January, during which the education department issued a statement saying it is consulting with the Anguilla Teachers Union on the resumption of classes.
Security measures
In an earlier statement, the department announced that procurement had been approved, and two companies had been contracted to clear overgrown vegetation at Campus Q.
This work will enhance visibility of the perimeter and reduce opportunities for concealment, and is expected to be completed by the end of the week.
The contractors will also clear the area at Pope Hill which borders Campus B. Clearing work at Campus A and Campus B was expected to be completed by the end of the day.
The public announcement system at Campus Q is now operational across most of the campus, except in the cafeteria and the science and hospitality blocks, the department said.
The relevant government departments are continuing to work on completing the installation of the system.
Police response
As of 2.30pm, the Royal Anguilla Police Force and the Department of Disaster Management began a session with teachers at Campus Q to review the ‘armed-person engagement protocols’.
Police officers have also committed to conducting regular patrols across Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School.
The education department acknowledged the request for armed security on school campuses.
“However, given the polarised views on this and the serious implications for the educational environment, a broader consultation is required on this matter,” it said.
A Safety and Security Advisory Committee comprised of representatives from each campus and each of the primary schools will be established to oversee the effectiveness and sustainability of safety measures.
On Wednesday, 22 January, a PTA meeting will be held at Campus B in the Courtyard at 4.15pm. Parents and guardians of students are asked to attend.
