UPPER MERION, Pa. (CBS) – Upper Merion schools will start 2013 off with a new security measure.

Starting Jan. 2, police officers will conduct random foot patrols at any given time of day, according to Superintendent Jane Callaghan. The announcement comes just weeks after the tragic shooting in Newtown, CT.

“With each school shooting incident that occurs across the country we have re-evaluated what we are doing to prevent this tragedy in Upper Merion Township” said, Police Chief Nolan. “Our main goal is to make these schools a less appealing target because any potential actors will be aware that the police are often at the school and may arrive at any moment.”

The School District has given the police department key cards to allow them access to the district schools. Other parochial and private schools will also be included in the plan.