To address the security gap, it is estimated that 548 security guards would be needed across the affected schools
Parents of private school students in New York City are calling for changes to local legislation to secure funding for security guards at smaller private and religious schools. They argue that safety and education should go hand in hand, and that the current legal framework leaves around 70,000 students vulnerable.
At Our Lady of Lourdes School in Hamilton Heights, the lack of dedicated security guards has meant that office staff have taken on the role of monitoring cameras and controlling access to the building. “You just never know who’s coming in,” remarked a concerned parent during pickup.
Principal Suzanne Kaczynski explained that the school lost city funding for security guards when its enrolment dropped below 300 during the pandemic. “We felt safer knowing there was someone at the door watching,” she said, emphasising the impact on the school community.
The debate centres around a proposed bill in the City Council, which would allocate an additional USD 20 million annually to reimburse smaller private schools for security services. Currently, under Local Law 2, only schools with 300 or more students are eligible for city-funded security. “Local Law 2 is deficient because only schools with 300 or more students can be part of the initiative,” said Joseph Rosenberg of the Catholic Community Relations Council during a hearing in September. “Enrollments of 299 are not eligible.”
The concerns have intensified in light of recent events, with leaders from various religious schools stressing the heightened need for security. “Since October 7, I’ve worried incredibly about my students,” said Bracha Rutner of Yeshiva University High School for Girls in Queens. Islamic schools have also voiced their concerns. “Several of our students were accosted outside the school,” noted Imani Moore of the Razi School in Woodside.
To address the security gap, it is estimated that 548 security guards would be needed across the affected schools. Parents remain hopeful that the proposal will pass. “Somebody can have a job they’re proud of because they’re protecting children—it’s a win,” said Joe Gentile, a parent. Julie Lawrence added, “We live in New York City. Things happen anywhere.”
The Archdiocese of New York also expressed support for the proposed legislation, stating, “This legislation is an important step in securing the well-being of all our children. We commend the council for prioritising safety and community well-being.” Principal Kaczynski echoed this sentiment, saying, “To have a security guard cost reimbursed would really be a blessing.”
Sources within the City Council have indicated that the bill’s language is being finalised, with hopes of securing funding for private schools by early next year.
