Security Increased at Southern High After Racial Attacks
Four officers and 60 cameras to be added to high school
NBCPhiladelphia.com
Angry Southern High students and their parents held signs during a school district meeting Wednesday. They say officials haven't addressed their concerns over what they call racially motivated beatings at the school.
South Philadelphia High School is getting more security officers and security cameras after a series of attacks on Asian-American students.
Officials announced Friday that the school will add four security officers after the series of attacks on about 30 Asian-American students last week.
One of the officers is fluent in Cantonese, giving students an easier outlet to discuss potential issues.
The school will also add more than 60 security cameras.
"During my 25 years involved in education, I know first hand that students cannot learn if they do not feel safe," said Southern principal LaGreta Brown. "I am highly disappointed and upset with last week's racial conflicts and fights that escalated into violence."
Dozens of Asian-American students are boycotting classes over the attacks.
They say the assaults are racially motivated and that the school hasn't done enough to prevent the problem.
"The school still feels the same to me," said student Trung Tran. "I'm still not sure."
School officials said Friday that 10 students have been suspended over the attacks. Brown says she's meeting with families of victims.
She says some boycotting students have returned and that she hopes the rest come back Monday.
Copyright Associated Press / NBC 10 Philadelphia
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