Brentwood School District To Install 'Man Traps' After Texas Shooting

BRENTWOOD, NY — The Brentwood School District, along with other schools across Long Island, announced it is taking precautions on Wednesday, after 19 children and two adults were killed in the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.

In a letter to the Brentwood community, Superintendent Richard Loeschner announced that it would be installing "Man Traps", or a set of two doorways where a person must be buzzed into the first set of doors, present identification, and is buzzed through the second set of doors.

"The Brentwood School District’s foremost priority is the safety, security and wellbeing of our students, staff, faculty, and community," he wrote.

Superintendent Loeschner also stated that in every district building, except Brentwood High School, there is a single point of entry which is staffed by a security guard and/or a monitor. The front entry will always be staffed by an adult, he said.

In the high school, there are three points of entry in the morning, all staffed by security personnel. After schools open, the number of entry points are reduced to two and are supervised.

"Our administration continuously reviews and updates Districtwide security and safety procedures," he continued to write. "We regularly practice and test these protocols, and we remain vigilant to keep our buildings safe and secure."

Superintendent Loeschner also expressed that the district is "devastated and heartbroken by the horror that took place" on Tuesday.

Grief counselors will be available at each school, should any student need support during this "unfathomable" time.

"Our team of social workers also have guidance and resources to help parents speak with students about tragedies at age-appropriate levels," Superintendent Loeschner said. "If you are concerned about how your child is handling this tragedy, please contact the school so we can meet with your son or daughter."

Suffolk County Police also announced on Wednesday that they would step up the patrolling of schools. Some districts such as Sayville School District have added additional security to its schools.

"Today, is a sad day but we are fortunate to have such a close and supportive community, which uplifts us in times of tragedy," Superintendent Loeschner said. "If you are able, give your kids an extra-long hug today and tell them how much you love them."