On the heels of the tragedy at Virginia Tech University, Governor Matt Blunt (R-MO) has announced a new Campus Security Task Force to examine the safety and security at Missouri’s colleges and universities.
The Task Force would also help ensure a closer partnership between school administrators and public safety officials. The Task Force will focus on initiatives to improve safety standards and heighten security within buildings and facilities on campus.
In addition, the Governor wants colleges and universities to implement a new Internet-based tool that allows emergency responders to access participating schools’ floor plans. He says many public schools and daycare centers are already using this tool, adding it should be expanded.
The Task Force is co-chaired by Public Safety Director Mark James and Higher Education Commissioner Robert Stein. Other Task Force members will include 2 and 4 year public and private higher education leaders, law enforcement, public safety associations, and student representatives.