Volusia County

Safety and education are top priorities as Volusia County students return to class on Monday

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Volusia County parents and students are enjoying one last day of summer break before going back to school.

The district has been preparing for months to welcome everyone back starting on Monday.

School safety and academics are what the district’s new superintendent says she’ll prioritize as students return to school.

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“We want you to know that when it comes to making sure that your student is receiving a world-class education that is a priority,” said Volusia County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin. “We are committed to leading with grace and respect and ensuring that every single campus is safe and that learning is engaging for every student.”

Balgobin wants to help the 64,000 Volusia County students get back on track post-pandemic, but it’s a goal that doesn’t come without challenges.

Volusia County is battling a vacancy problem, with 3% of all positions empty right now.

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The district’s other big priority is school safety.

This upcoming school year, 120 guardians, school resource officers and deputies are on campus to help with that mission. They have all been trained and retrained to intervene in the case of an emergency.

“They’re not going to stand by and wait for others to join them. They’ve all signed on the dotted line as have I and everyone standing behind me to sacrifice our own lives if it comes to that,” said VCPS safety and security leader Michelle Newman.

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District and law enforcement leaders also laid out other adjustments since the Uvalde shooting in Texas. Every Volusia County school now has access to police radios and mental health resources.

Staff will also have a badge with a button that can instantly send a message asking for help.

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