Northshore School District Safe Schools Advisory Committee launches

The Northshore School District’s Safe Schools Advisory Committee, which will study safety and security issues for District schools and make recommendations to Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, held its first meeting on Sept. 25 with a full house at Northshore Middle School’s library.

Reid officially provided the charge of the panel, which is chaired by Director of Safety and Security Henry Simon.

After a period of review and research, the committee will make recommendations in the areas of programming, engaging with all communities in the District, communications methods, access control at schools, emergency preparedness and training policies.

“Our goal is to provide students an amazing educational experience in a safe environment,” Reid said. “The passion for this topic is palpable within our community. We are grateful for the hard work and dedication of these individuals, as they will be providing guidance and recommendations on this topic, which affects all of us.”

Reid added that this initiative fulfills Building Block 2 of the District’s Strategic Plan, keeping a “Safe Climate” in schools.

Simon said the committee will address the challenges that lie ahead.

“I look forward to working with this motivated collection of parents, District staff and community to find solutions to prepare our campuses for all types of scenarios,” said Simon.

Northshore voters in February approved a bond that included $13 million in funds for security upgrades throughout District’s schools, and the committee will play a role in how that money will be used.

 “The task of finding the best way to stretch our limited bond dollars earmarked for capital security projects is one that this group seems eager to help with,” Simon said.

The committee consists of 30 community members, including students, parents, first responders, teachers and District staff. The members were chosen from the 118 applications the District received, and they will serve in an advisory role for Simon.

In May 2019, the committee will deliver recommendations to the superintendent, who will review the report and make modifications, if needed. Once approved, the proposals will move forward.