TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Local education officials in Florida say communications is the most important factor that goes into making schools safe.

Three county school superintendents had that message Tuesday for a Florida Senate committee, which is examining security issues following the Connecticut shooting that killed 20 first-graders and six adults.

They cited technology that allows schools to communicate directly with police and parents, as well as surveillance systems. Another important form of communications comes from students who provide information on potential problems.

Grady Cannon, an assistant principal at Pace High School in the Panhandle, also urged the panel to reject proposals for arming teachers. Cannon noted that six weeks ago one of his teachers, although experienced with firearms, accidentally shot himself off campus.