Single point entry has been officially locked down. With dozens of staff members posted everywhere across campus to make sure no student gets in from anywhere other than the front doors, the Shadow Ridge campus is officially closed to any outsiders who wish to cause harm.
Administrators at Shadow Ridge stress that the safety of students is their top priority. By limiting entry points, staff members are better able to monitor who comes in and out of the school. This measure aligns with district-wide efforts to increase security in response to growing concerns about school safety nationwide.
Coach Robert Simonini says, “It may feel inconvenient at times, but we want to make sure every student who walks through our doors feels safe.”
Despite the inconvenience, most students recognize the intent behind the decision. Students have expressed mixed reactions to the update. While some find it reassuring to know their campus is being closely monitored; others say it has made getting to class more challenging.
Alex Loya Corral, junior, says, “Single point entry is horrible. It’s even worse when I get stopped in the halls because the staff can’t see my lanyard, even though I have it on.”
Another thing that’s been enforced is the lanyards. If students don’t have their ID hanging around their neck, they won’t be allowed to enter the school. Following that, if students somehow find a way into the school without using the front entrance and they don’t have their lanyard on, they will be sent up to the front office and possibly be RPCD.
As students begin to enter the school, it is way busier than it was last year. The lines go from outside the gates and will sometimes
wrap around the front doors. Also, when students scan in and enter the school, there is no place to sit and it may even be hard to find a spot to stand where they’re not in the way of others.
As schools across the country search for effective ways to protect their communities, single point entry is becoming an increasingly common practice. For Shadow Ridge, this change reflects a commitment to prioritizing security without sacrificing the welcoming environment the school strives to maintain. While the adjustment period may take some time, both staff and students are adapting to the new system with the shared understanding that safety must come first.
Matthew Greene, junior, states, “I think it’s necessary, but I also think it’s an inconvenience. Sometimes Ill end up being late to class because f the way the school manages things and I won’t even be excused.”
