Staff and Parents Want Changes at San Jose Unified After ‘Ghost Gun’ Incidents

San Jose Unified parents have expressed fear and frustration with the security situation at local schools.

The complaints followed a disturbing incident at Willow Glen High School on May 17. A student was found with a loaded ghost gun on campus, as well as a knife. The weapons were confiscated by school resource officers and the campus was locked down. But parents say the district did not immediately notify them.

It wasn’t the first time. A ghost gun was also found on campus at San Jose’s Hoover Middle School in April. On May 14, an Abraham Lincoln High School student threatened to shoot classmates on social media.

The incidents have left parents and staff on edge. Teachers have asked for additional security measures, including ensuring all campus security cameras are in working order. Parents who addressed the superintendent urged the district to listen to teachers and staff about their safety concerns. They also want more transparency in emergency situations.

The district has assured parents it is working toward improvements. In addition to more resources for teachers, the district plans to start posting pertinent security updates on its websites.

Read more about the safety concerns at SJUSD via San Jose Spotlight and KTVU.