District 64 over the past three years has focused significant time and resources on studying and enhancing the safety and security of students and staff. Partnerships with local First Responders, a noted safety consultant, and the Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy (NIPSTA) have guided this work.
Reporting at the September 12, 2016 Board of Education meeting, the District reviewed recent upgrades to the physical security at the buildings, such as the application of impact resistant security film to the exterior entry doors at all schools and "hold open" alarms, as well as a secured vestibule at Washington School.
Also discussed was a new Safety, Security and Emergency Operation Plan co-written with NIPSTA, which identifies a wide range of threats/hazards and outlines the responsibilities and duties of District 64 staff and others in response.
Looking ahead, staff training will be a major focus for 2016-17, as District 64 introduces training aligned with national emergency preparedness standards to coordinate more efficiently with local First Responders. The District also will introduce a new "Crisis Go" mobile app communication tool to keep administrators and others immediately connected with critical safety resources and Responders.
Visit the new Safety & Security website to find more information about these ongoing initiatives.