MCCSC releases update regarding safety procedures

In the wake of the fatal shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. that killed 20 children and six adults, the Monroe County Community School Corporation released an update regarding safety procedures Dec. 14.

These include the locking and monitoring of all K-12 school doors. Front entrances to schools are watched by security cameras and all visitors must check-in at front offices.
In addition, the two main high schools employ security staff. School faculty are taught how to implement safety plans, which are practiced regularly.

The Corporation received grant money to train additional faculty in emergency readiness. Guidance counselors and social workers are available to aid students.

“As always, teachers and administrators will be on alert to student needs and will do their utmost to conduct normal, positive, activities at each of our schools with heightened regard to safety procedures,” Corporation officials said in a school safety update.

The procedures include the following:
   
• All K-12 school doors are locked and monitored daily. Our front entry ways are accessed by secure video entry. All visitors must be admitted to the building and must check-in at the front office.
  
• Effective partnerships and relationships with the Bloomington and Monroe County Police Department are in place with regular communication occurring between law enforcement and the schools. In addition, police officers have a regular presence within our secondary schools and our two main high schools also have security staff.
   
• Safety plans and corresponding safety drills are practiced at each school on a regular basis. School staff are trained in how to activate safety plans and procedures.
   
• Grant funding also has expanded our ability to train increased numbers of staff in emergency preparedness.

The update announcement can be viewed in its entirety here.

Source: Monroe County Community School Corporation

— Sydney Murray