Concerned Brooklyn parents of P.S. 21 students credit increased patrols by police officers with making the community safer, but they also say more needs to be done.

Administrators of P.S. 21 canceled recess for the students following a shooting near school grounds in 2006. The shooting was so close that some students needed to duck for cover, according to parents. A police officer was shot a block away from the school shortly after, heightening alarm.

Parents told News 12 Brooklyn that while the increased police presence has helped, other steps need to be taken. Parents believe more after school programs should be offered to keep kids off the street and prevent them from getting involved in crime.

Police need to maintain a similar presence throughout the entire community to create a safe environment, according to parents.