In May 2023, Bellarmine Prep experienced three vehicle break ins, one of which was also a stolen vehicle. The school addressed parents of the students through an email on May 30. While parents were informed of the safety issue taking place in the parking lot, students were left with questions and concerns.
Aaron Rogers, Director of Digital Services and Security, spoke on the situation. Rogers explained the safety measures that Bellarmine is implementing. There are already 30 cameras located all around the exterior of the campus along with a safety officer roaming the premises. The school is always working to increase campus safety. One of the projects they wish to implement is a card reader system that allows doors to stay locked during the day while still permitting all students and staff to enter. While this is an expensive project, Bellarmine is working towards other cost effective projects such as limiting Bellarmine’s campus to one entry. Their goal is to improve campus access control.
While it is the school’s hope that their measures will prevent break ins, there might still be some to occur. The school provides aid to the students who experience these situations by pulling videos from their surveillance system and writing comprehensive reports for police and families. Safety officers are available to monitor or escort students when needed.
Students can play a role in the safety of their vehicles. Rogers said, as a message to students, “Take good safety measures and fully secure your vehicles. Do not leave valuables out in the open.” These are preventative measures each student can take.