How to Summarize & Analyze School Safety
- 1). Take an honest look at your safety program and look for any flaws by playing out hypothetical scenarios. For example, if a child were to bring a weapon to school, would you have the measures in place to prevent it? Failing that, would you be able to detect it before a violent incident broke out? Decide just how prepared you are for a worst-case scenario.
- 2). Assess the environment and overall morale that teachers and administrators are fostering. According to Ed Virant, project coordinator for the Drug Free Program in the Omaha (Neb.) Public Schools system, the more positive, self-esteem boosting direction your school has, the less likely that a violent incident could break out.
- 3). Talk to the teachers and parents about their concerns. You may have had few or no incidents at your school, and your safety measures may look good on paper, but it is important to talk with those who work with the children every day and hear their concerns. For example, during recess, there may be vulnerabilities with the perimeter of the playground that you may be unaware of that the teachers could shed light on.
- 4). Study other schools that have exemplary safety programs and see how yours measures up. It is better to be proactive than reactive, and even if you think you are adequately protecting the students, always consult with your peers and get advice on how to further safeguard your institution.
- 5). Constantly review and revise your safety program. Everyone involved in the education community, from parents to teachers to the school staff, should be encouraged to give their input on a regular basis. The key thing is to know that the work is never complete, as there is always room for improvement regarding school safety.
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