Enhanced security, but no metal detectors at Columbine High School
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By Pekka Mykkänen in Littleton, Colorado, USA
The shootings at Columbine in the town of Littleton, Colorado led to widespread debate on school safety and the right to bear arms.
The analysis, and measures that have been taken have not brought an end to this, but students interviewed in Columbine feel that their school is safe.
No metal detectors were installed in Columbine. In the view of Principal Frank DeAngelis, they would not have stopped the shooters in the spring of 1999. "This is a school, and not a fortress."
More security cameras have been installed, and access to the school has been restricted, but there is only one police officer assigned to this school with 1,650 students - the same as before the shooting.
Students have been taught to remain vigilant.
According to DeAngelis, parents do not want to see pictures of their children in the media, and photography is not allowed on the school grounds.
Columbine is trying to shake off the reputation from the massacre. Even the memorial that was opened in September is in a nearby park.
There is a zero tolerance policy toward bullying. Those who harass fellow students are suspended for a couple of days. Those caught bringing weapons to school, or selling drugs are expelled in all of Colorado.
Columbine High School, which was opened in 1973, is a school with a good reputation. Four out of five of its students get into college, and test results are above the state and national average.
Helsingin Sanomat / First published in print 11,11.2007
More on this subject:
 Columbine principal says Jokela will need help for a long time
PEKKA MYKKÄNEN / Helsingin Sanomat
pekka.mykkanen@hs.fi
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