How to Implement School Safety Plans

Increased need for security in all K-12 schools has made it imperative for schools to have safety plans in place. Implementing these plans requires organization and cooperation from administration, teachers, students and parents. Although not something you'll use everyday, having a school safety plan can help everyone feel safe and secure when in school.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• A well-detailed and well rehearsed safety plan that meets district, state and federal requirements

1. Contact your local school district for a list of recommendations and requirements for school safety plans. General district wide plans are normally predetermined for each school in the system.
2. Meet with teachers and staff to review elements of your school safety plan. Make sure that each member of the team understands her role in the safety plan.
3. Create a chain of command to be followed in the school safety plan. It is important to know who is in charge and when in the event of an emergency.
4. Set up a system of communication that is viable even in the event of a power failure. Check communication devices often to be sure they are in working order at all times.
5. Have school safety drills with staff, student and parents when applicable. An informed school community is a safe one.
6. Prepare procedures for students and individuals with special needs.
7. Go over everyday procedures and find ways to increase prevention. Limiting building access, a volunteer check in/out system and coded announcements are all ways to increase building safety.

Tips & Warnings

• Get parents involved in keeping your school safe by finding ways they can be part of the team.
• Make sure emergency card information is up-to-date on every student.
• An unrehearsed safety plan is an ineffective one. Don't take for granted that everyone in the building knows what to do in the event of an emergency if you haven't practiced.