Safety and Crisis Management Response: To prepare district staff and facilities for a crisis/emergency situation

     The impact of national events over the past years has re-emphasized the placement of physical safety of our students at the top of district priorities.  The district has established a comprehensive security system, which locks exterior doors during the school day.  Visitors are required to use main entrances, which are monitored with security cameras and equipped with door buzzers.

Crisis Management Plan

  A crisis management plan has been implemented in all of the schools.  The plan identifies a crisis team in each of the buildings and specifies procedures for administrators, teachers, and students in the event of a crisis.  The plan addresses potential emergency situations with specific direction for all school personnel. 

     Recently, the district has commissioned two safety audits by different outside agencies.  These audits have made recommendations to the superintendent.  Changes in district procedures and policies have been made when appropriate.

Administrative Discipline Policies

  Each building has a written discipline code and a corollary bus policy code which is administered by the principal and assistant principals.  The discipline code is consistent with district policy as well as state and federal law.  It identifies unacceptable behaviors and defines the consequences for various behaviors.  Swift and consistent discipline is complemented by providing necessary assistance for students who may require social, emotional, and/or behavioral support.

     Beginning in the 2002-2003 school year, Parkland School District incorporates a South Whitehall Township police officer as a School Resource Officer.  By providing a visible presence in the high school, this specially trained officer will work in partnership with staff to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment.  The resource officer will be available to consult with various school-based teams as well as to work with high school administration to deter ongoing positive relationship with the township police department will allow the district to provide proactive informational sessions with students in addition to having a police presence.