It is with a strong sense of sadness that we address the KI community following the hostage taking this past weekend in Texas. We are relieved and grateful that the rabbi and congregants were able to escape safely, both thanks to their own initiative and the help of law enforcement.
This event, and others like it, no doubt raise questions about the security of KI and the campus. While we cannot speak specifically regarding current and planned for arrangements (ironically for security reasons), the 384 Harvard Campus has a comprehensive approach, including these elements:
1. Security Self-Assessment and Regular Review: Working with the Brookline Police Department (BPD) and security experts from CJP on an ongoing basis, we continually analyze our operational practices and physical infrastructure probing for weaknesses, developing mitigation strategies, and implementing rational, risk-based solutions in a thoughtful and impactful manner as threats and security technology evolve.
2. Utilization of Public and Private Security: We have close ties with the BPD who have not only helped us in security assessment, but also proactively inform us of security threats on a real-time basis. Our well-being is foremost in their planning and they have responded rapidly whenever issues have arisen, have opened communication channels with us, and have provided security training at KI. We are blessed to have such a committed partner. In addition to their support, KI has also engaged with private security to initially to help on Shabbat and now weekdays during preschool hours to provide a watchful eye and act in ways that the BPD cannot.
3. Community Training and Shomrim: While the BPD and private security are of immense value, the real key to our community’s security is our members. We know our community better than they ever can and thus we are our best eyes and ears. As mentioned, KI has hosted multiple security training sessions and we are scheduling more for this year. These sessions are valuable not only in learning and mentally preparing for emergencies, but perhaps even more importantly, in preventing such situations from arising in the first place. They are an integral part of joining the Campus Shomrim. Many of you are familiar with the Shomrim and the three of us are all members. The Shomrim are the external greeters and internal monitors on Shabbat and holidays. Their knowledge of our community — our people and physical infrastructure — enables the team to identify potential threats and respond swiftly, always starting with a friendly greeting and potentially follow up with questions for new faces. We Shomrim stand as 28 strong, 13 of whom have volunteered their time on shifts since Rosh Hashanah. It is important to expand this group to at least 40 for proper coverage without relying on a few to carry this important effort. Please join us! You will learn, help secure our campus, and get to know our community even better. If you have questions or would like to sign up, please contact KI.
In sum, KI takes security seriously and is not standing still. We are sensitive to potential threats, while striving maintain the campus’ characteristic openness and warmth.
Best regards,
Gordon Bennett – President, KI Board of Trustees
Barnet Kessel – Executive Director
Dr. Jonathan Slutzman – KI Volunteer
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