All Farmington Schools to Lock Doors, Review Security Plans in January

Farmington Public Schools Supt. Susan Zurvalec has requested that main entrances at all district schools be locked through the end of the week. 

Winter vacation starts for students at the end of the school day on Friday; students will return on Jan. 3. 

The statement, emailed through the district's list serv, explained that school officials have received questions from parents regarding safety and security measures since a lone gunman forced his way into Sandy Hook elementary school and killed 20 children and six adults before turning the gun on himself. 

School principals have communicated with parents via list serv about safety measures at their buildings. On Monday, Power Upper Elementary School James Anderson announced a change in policy that now requires parents to check in at the office before accessing the building. 

Wednesday's list serv message noted that, while procedures are in place regarding visitors coming into a school, "for the remainder of the week starting Wednesday, December 19, the Superintendent has asked to have the main entrances either locked and have visitors call to gain entry or to have the front doors monitored by someone during the school day."

School and local law enforcement officials will meet in January to review the district's safety plans and determine whether any additional steps need to be taken. "As always, the safety of our students, families and staff are of the utmost concern to everyone in Farmington Public Schools," the statement read.

On Tuesday, Michigan Supt. of Schools Mike Flanagan issued a special holiday statement, noting his office sent resources to schools on Monday to help them deal with the crisis.