Roles and Responsibilities
Administration
- Ensure all safety policies comply with local, state, and federal laws.
- Develop and enforce procedures for emergencies, drills, and routine safety checks.
- Train staff in emergency response and reporting protocols.
Faculty and Staff
- Supervise students and uphold all safety procedures.
- Report hazards or suspicious behavior immediately.
- Participate in safety training and emergency drills.
Students
- Follow school rules and safety instructions at all times.
- Report unsafe behavior or hazards to a trusted adult.
Parents/Guardians
- Keep student emergency and medical information current.
- Support the school’s safety policies and procedures.
Emergency Preparedness
Fire Safety
- Fire drills will be conducted monthly.
- Clear evacuation routes posted in each room.
- Staff trained in use of fire extinguishers and safe evacuation practices.
Lockdown/Intruder Protocol
- Lockdown drills held at least twice per year.
- Classroom doors secured, lights off, and silence maintained.
- Communication with law enforcement and parents will follow school protocol.
Weather Emergencies
- Severe weather drills practiced regularly.
- Designated safe areas identified and used during threats.
- Early dismissal decisions communicated via phone, email, and school alert system.
Medical Emergencies
- First aid kits accessible throughout the campus.
- Staff trained in CPR and basic first aid.
- Emergency services contacted immediately when necessary.
Health and Wellness
Illness and Injury Response
- Sick students must be sent home if they exhibit fever, vomiting, or communicable symptoms.
- Injuries documented and parents notified.
- COVID-19 or other contagious illness protocols updated per health department guidance.
Medication Administration
- Prescription medications administered only with written parental and physician authorization.
- All medications stored in locked cabinets or nurse's office.
Building Security
- All visitors must check in at the main office and wear a visitor badge.
- Exterior doors locked during school hours; access limited to secure entry points.
- Security cameras may be used to monitor school grounds.
Transportation Safety
- All school vehicles maintained and inspected regularly.
- Students expected to follow behavior guidelines on buses.
- Loading/unloading zones clearly marked and supervised.
Anti-Bullying and Violence Prevention
- Zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, or violence.
- Procedures in place for reporting and investigating all incidents.
- Counseling and behavioral support available for affected students.
Child Protection
- Background checks required for all employees and volunteers.
- Mandatory reporting of suspected abuse or neglect.
- Staff trained in recognizing signs of abuse and proper reporting procedures.
Technology and Internet Safety
- Internet use monitored to protect students from harmful content.
- Cyberbullying prohibited and addressed with the same seriousness as in-person bullying.
- Digital citizenship taught to all students.
Review and Updates
- This policy will be reviewed annually by the school leadership team.
- Updates made in response to changes in law, best practices, or school needs.
- Training provided yearly to staff and age-appropriate instruction for students.
Acknowledgment
All faculty, staff, parents, and students (as age-appropriate) are expected to read, understand, and adhere to this Safety Policy. A signed acknowledgment will be kept on file.