BUTLER (KDKA) – In the wake of a tragic school shooting in Connecticut, one obvious question is are local schools any safer, or could the same thing happen here?

Officials said these incidents are extremely rare. However, earlier this week the Butler School District voted to put retired, armed state troopers in the schools.

Officials said this tragedy underscores the need for districts to do whatever it takes to protect the students.

“My heart aches for the families of the children and the staff members in Connecticut and what they have to deal with. I’ll certainly be praying for them and I know thousands of people will be doing that as well,” Butler School District Superintendent Dr. Michael Strutt said.

The Butler School Board took what some described as “dramatic action” just this week by agreeing to put retired, armed state troopers in the schools.

“Whether we’re right or whether we’re wrong, we will do whatever it takes to protect the children in Butler School District,” Dr. Strutt said.

The original plan was for the troopers to be in the three secondary schools. Now, the discussion will expand to the 11 elementary schools.

Security experts said it is impossible to place a highly-trained armed officer in every school in America. However, there are other security measures they can take to protect students.

“They are locking doors. They are putting cameras out front. They are having monitors where someone can walk up and speak to a secretary,” Security Consultant Bob Meinert said.

Meinert suggested that all parents should contact their school districts are taking the necessary actions to protect students.

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