East Meadow School District addresses overnight thefts

East Meadow School District officials are looking into implementing measures that could combat the theft of scrap metal at one of their elementary schools.

Discussions on the topic began over the summer, as Bowling Green Elementary School was victimized early one morning in July, as thieves stole materials from the roof of the one-story building. 

According to Superintendent Louis DeAngelo, the theft of scrap metal at schools is not new to the area, as his district and others in the area have experienced this problem in recent months.  

“It’s a growing problem amongst school districts and all kinds of commercial buildings,” DeAngelo said.

During the Sept. 16 work meeting of the East Meadow Board of Education, Director of School Facilities and Operations Patrick Pizzo said the district is taking a “step by step approach” to address the problem. 

The first measure, which was to be implemented this week, was the installation of additional fencing to prevent access to the school parking lot after hours. This fencing, officials explained, could deter potential criminals from bringing their vehicles in to load the stolen materials. 

The second step, which has not been approved yet, is the installation of motion detection lighting. Motion detectors could alert neighboring residents, patrolling officers and school security of trespassers in the night hours, officials said.   

Another step, yet to be pursued, is the possibility of security cameras. District officials said they are assessing the need for cameras and the cost factor associated with it. 

Helen Meittinis, president of the Community Association of Stewart Avenue, which includes Bowling Green, said she favors security cameras for more than combating the overnight thefts of scrap metal. She explained that as the economy got worse over the past few years, there has been an increase in vandalism and burglaries on school and residential properties. 

“It’s very unsettling,” she said. “It’s a good start, a step in the right direction. Ultimately, we may have to go for cameras.”