Recent events at Portage Collegiate Institute have caused parents to rethink how safe their children really are at school. Within the first days of school (Sept 2014) there was physical violence and the use of bear spray. This was then followed by rumors of further violence which resulted in some parents keeping their children home from school. We as parents feel our children’s’ right to an education has been compromised by this activity and the inability to keep violence out of the school. Children should be able to be confident that they are in a safe environment where they can learn without fear of being beaten up or otherwise harmed.
In todays world attending high school can be difficult and stressful for students. The added stress of possible in school violence can lead to decreased attendance, anxiety and depression. Having 2 security guards on duty at PCI will help our children to attend school and feel safe and secure in their learning environment.
We, the parents and rate payers of Portage la Prairie are petitioning the school board to hire security to patrol the hallways and grounds of Portage Collegiate Institute. We believe that two security guards patrolling the area with communication to staff will help alleviate some of the problems in the school.
