The MCCPTA Climate and Safety Committee would like to remind parents of the following:
- Never open or hold open secure doors to allow someone to enter. For obvious reasons only school officials should grant entry of a person into a school.
- If you notice someone or something that is concerning or strange on or near school grounds, go to the trouble of reporting it to a school official and the police. Note the who, what, where, when, why, and how the person/situation is concerning. If you see a door propped open, report it and stand by until the door gets secured. Reporting things like this has prevented school tragedies.
- Be aware of school emergency response procedures, how the school communicates with parents, and where the reunification site is.
- Discuss emergency response procedures with your children. Ask them to pay attention during lockdown drills and to take them seriously.
- Talk with your children about – and offer solutions for – resolving conflicts.
- If your child uses social media or texting, review their incoming and outgoing messages regularly for any concerning or hurtful messages they may be receiving or sending.
- Save this in your phone and ensure your kids know about this anonymous reporting tool: Maryland Center for Safe Schools, (833) 632-7233, https://schoolsafety.maryland.gov.
- In summary, be observant, communicate, report concerns, be involved, and be prepared.
Our children’s safety isn’t solely the responsibility of school administrators, teachers, or law enforcement. We are all on duty! Thank you!
