OPINION | Barry Richard: Fall River Takes School Threat Seriously, But Do Others?

Still spooked by a couple of social media threats that were received in the days following the Parkland, Florida high school massacre last week, officials in Fall River are advising parents that enhanced security will remain in place when students return from vacation on Monday.

While the threats were not deemed to be credible, school officials say they are taking no chances.

Below is the letter that was sent to parents:

School safety has finally taken center stage, after years of school shootings that were always followed by political debates over gun control. Our kids and teachers are like sitting ducks just waiting for the next attack. Securing our schools has to be a matter of top national priority.

The New Bedford City Council has begun the discussion on school safety. It's about time. No longer can we afford to have a false sense of security when it comes to our schools.

Niche.com has released its list of what it says are currently the 100 safest school districts in Massachusetts. Here's a look at how some fared:

1. Cambridge

7. Swansea

16. Dartmouth

28. Brockton

36. Fairhaven

79. Freetown-Lakeville

87. Taunton

92. Wareham

You'll notice, New Bedford and Fall River didn't even make this list.

It's time we do better.

Editor's Note: Barry Richard is the afternoon host on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from Noon-3 p.m. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.