Pascack Hills Student Champions Safety Reform After Parkland Tragedy

Parkland, Florida, USA - Pascack Hills High School junior Ashley Schwartz is making waves in school safety advocacy, fueled by a personal connection to tragedy. Her determination stems from the 2018 Parkland shooting, which resulted in the loss of Alyssa Alhadeff, a close family friend of Ashley’s mother. The heartbreaking event led to the creation of Make Our Schools Safe (MOSS), a nonprofit founded by Lori Alhadeff, Alyssa’s mother, to champion school safety nationwide.

MOSS passionately promotes the adoption of Alyssa’s Law, which requires public schools to implement silent panic alarms linked directly to law enforcement. In New Jersey, this law was signed in 2019 by Governor Phil Murphy, marking a regional commitment to enhancing school safety. Inspired by the mission of MOSS, Ashley took it upon herself to launch the first MOSS club in New Jersey at her high school.

A Focus on Safety and Mental Health

Ashley’s initiative has already made a difference. The MOSS club at Pascack Hills consulted with school security, counselors, and local police, emphasizing mental health alongside physical safety. Their first significant project involved promoting an anonymous reporting hotline in collaboration with Sandy Hook Promise, aiming to empower students to speak out on safety concerns.

Additionally, the club organized orientation classes for incoming eighth graders, addressing various critical topics such as drugs, alcohol, bullying, and social media challenges. This proactive step not only enhances awareness but also fosters a culture of safety and trust within the school.

Recently, a security concern about the cafeteria’s visibility from the driveway was addressed by installing one-way privacy window film, which cost $11,000. Funded through an impressive fundraising effort and contributions from Valley Bank and MOSS, this installation enhances security while still allowing natural light into the space. It stands as a testament to the dedication and initiative of the students involved.

Vision for Improvement

The club further plans to implement a color-coded hallway system that will assist emergency personnel during critical situations, making it easier for them to navigate the school in times of need. Principal Tim Wieland has applauded the MOSS Club for their valuable contributions toward a safer school environment, stating that their work has significantly improved the school’s climate and culture.

Ashley’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. She recently received the Five-Star Student Award from Bergen County Clerk John Hogan due to her leadership and community service initiatives. It’s clear that her passion and commitment make her a shining example for her peers and a catalyst for change in school safety advocacy.

The Broader Movement

The mission championed by MOSS extends beyond just one school. Initiatives like Alyssa’s Law are gaining traction nationwide, supported by organizations dedicated to making schools safer. According to information on NovoTrax, schools can enhance their safety strategies with wearable panic buttons, automated lockdowns, and visual confirmation through video analytics.

As schools and communities alike rally around these measures, the conversation around school safety grows more intense and urgent. There’s something to be said for proactive change, and Ashley Schwartz is leading the charge in her community, continually inspired by a legacy that urges everyone to take safety seriously. For more insights into safety laws and programs being implemented across states, MOSS provides a comprehensive overview that every concerned citizen should explore.