CHATSWORTH : Club’s Fund Raising Tactic Is Alarming

Chatsworth Park Elementary School’s booster club will launch a fund-raiser this month with a disturbingly modern twist.

Instead of raffle tickets or Christmas candy, the booster club has decided to market personal security devices to raise money for air conditioners and computers at the school, said Michele DeGaetano, head of the club.

Barbara Champion, principal at Chatsworth Park, admitted that when the booster club floated the plan, the idea of selling hand-held alarms seemed “really weird.” But on second thought, she said, “I told them, ‘What the heck--do it. If it doesn’t make money at least it’s providing a service.’ ”

DeGaetano said several teachers at the school have already agreed to buy the devices, which look like large beepers, complete with a clip for belt or purse. When when a pin is pulled, a light flashes and the device emits a loud shrieking sound. DeGaetano said they are meant to scare off potential attackers.

The devices may not be as cheerful as the booster club’s yearly candy sales and golf tournaments. However, DeGaetano said, “Right now, it’s sad to say, reality is reality.”

She said booster club leaders had decided to sell the devices before the recent attacks by a serial child molester were made public. But she said the attacks are likely to fuel interest.

“The recent events are not that new,” she said. “It’s all the stuff that’s happened over the last few years. . . . People are concerned.”

Flyers advertising the sale were sent home to parents on Friday and orders are expected this week, DeGaetano said. The devices cost between $33 and $37, with the booster club receiving $8 per sale.