Parents seek added school security after assault

The Sexsmith Elementary School parent advisory council is requesting security improvements be made at the school after a sixyear-old girl was lured off school property and sexually assaulted earlier this month.

In a statement released Monday, the council says the assault, which occurred during school hours on Dec. 5 near the school on Columbia Street and West 59th Avenue, has left the school deeply shaken.

The council says there are several ongoing risk factors around the school that staff contend with as they supervise students.

To mitigate the risks, they recommended the following suggestions to the Vancouver school board.

Removal of all foliage at ground level on school grounds to increase sight lines and reduce blind spots. This would include the forested hill to the west of the school, as well as the alcove area located near the back of the library on the east side of the school.

Installation of additional fencing around the school to prevent children from wandering into less visible areas and to restrict outside access to the property.

Installation of security cameras at key spots around the exterior of the building.

Provide the school with additional supervision staff.