I live in Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania, an older suburb of Philadelphia. It’s quiet, tree-lined, and home to several parks. I have never personally experienced any crime here, but I know others who have, and I wonder if Garnet Valley is a safe place for children?
Garnet Valley has been home to my husband and me for the past 21 years. We have two sons, ages 9 and 11, who enjoy sports and school activities. They are both in middle school and go to church on Sunday. My husband is a pastor, so I’m often asked about safety. This article will address issues of safety for children in Garnet Valley.
Garnet Valley is a small community. It has two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The high school is the largest and most active in the area. The school’s campus is large and open. The parking lot can be easily seen from the street. There is no parking lot for parents or visitors. Parking is provided for students and teachers.
The high school has an active security force. There are two security officers on duty at all times. Two additional officers work part-time. All of these officers are in uniform and carry weapons. The main office, located on the first floor, is staffed by a secretary and a principal. The office is usually busy, but the secretary has a private door that leads to the office of the assistant principal, who also works part-time. The assistant principal is a former police officer.
When I ask people why they think Garnet Valley is a safe place, many respond that it’s not too big, there is a police presence, and the school has a security force. In addition, some say Garnet Valley has a reputation for being a safe place. Others have said that Garnet Valley is a good neighborhood. Still, others have told me that Garnet Valley is dangerous, and they don’t want their children to walk to or from school.
I believe that Garnet Valley is a safe place for children. I’ve lived here my entire life, and my children have attended the same elementary and middle school for over five years. There are no gangs or other problems in Garnet Valley that I’m aware of. The school has an active security force, which keeps things peaceful. The school is located on the campus of the high school. It is easy to see and hear the security guards, which helps keep students and staff safe. The school and the neighborhood are friendly, and I don’t know of any crimes that have occurred there.
There are many reasons to feel comfortable in Garnet Valley. First, the school and its security force are visible and effective. Second, the school is located on the campus of the high school, which is also a large, active institution. Third, the school’s proximity to the city of Philadelphia helps keep the community safe.
My children attend Garnet Valley Elementary School. They have friends in the same grade and play sports and other activities together. My children are in school until 3 p.m. on weekdays. Most of my children’s school friends are friendly, and they report that the kids get along. However, the school does not have a “bully patrol.” Children are generally happy to see each other and do their best to help each other. There are no gangs or other problems in Garnet Valley that I’m aware of.
Garnet Valley is a safe neighborhood, and I feel comfortable letting my children walk to school. The children are old enough to make their own decisions. I don’t worry about them being kidnapped or being attacked by someone on their way to school.