December 13, 2021 Volume I, Section 16

Happy Winter Break

"Meeting learners where they are and growing them as much as we can!"

December 5, 2021 Volume I, Section 15

Safety is our priority

"Meeting learners where they are and growing them as much as we can!"

Keeping our school safe

In my last message, I discussed the importance of students understanding their emotions and our commitment to Social-Emotional Learning. That is a large component of keeping children feeling safe and connected to school. There is also the need for physical safety at school. That is why we have structured, well-designed plans plans to address the unexpected on campus.

This past Friday we participated in our first Lockdown Drill of the year. It is one type of drill that is practiced with students to promote safety and ensure that we are all aware of what to do in an emergency. Besides three Lockdown Drills each year, we also practice evacuating with our Fire Drills each month and at least once a year we practice Earthquake Drills with our Drop, Cover, and Hold on procedure.

Working with children, especially our younger students, it's important for us to balance the urgency of a drill without being frightening. During these practices, we reinforce following directions, controlling our behavior and emotions, and being aware of what's going on. They are not designed to be scary, and teachers watch over children, providing reassurance and direction. Everything is framed through the lens of safety and security.

The purpose of drills is to create a strong memory of what to do if something unexpected happens. During these drills it becomes apparent how we can work together to provide a safe place for everyone, even during an emergency. Chet, like every school, has a Comprehensive School Safety Plan. To see our plan, visit our webpage and look under the "About Us" tab for the "Safety Plan" link. Safety Plans are update each fall and approved by the school board in January, so you will find last year's plan there until the New Year.