Shooting Near School Sparks Call for More Police

The head of the union representing parent coordinators at the New York City schools on Friday called for more of a police presence, especially during dismissal time. 

Shaun Francois, president of local 372, said Judith Daniels was caught in crossfire on Oct. 1 when she escorted parents from P.S. 81 in Bedford Stuyvesant to a town hall meeting at a nearby school. She was struck three times in the leg. Two other men were also hit, Francois said, adding that while Daniels was recovering she was afraid — and would like to see police better monitor the area.

“Especially at dismissal time, in the evening time when there are afterschool activities," he said. "We shouldn't wait for things to happen.”

Local 372 represents parent coordinators, crossing guards, cafeteria workers and many other non-teaching Department of Education employees.

The Police Department said the incident took place at 5:45 p.m. and was technically not in front of the school, but on Stuyvesant Avenue and Pulaski Street about a block away. A suspect was arrested and charged with three counts of attempted murder and assault.

Police are often sent to high schools and middle schools during dismissal times. but not often sent to elementary schools.

Do you see enough police around your local school? Do you think they should maintain a greater presence at elementary schools?