School Safety Plans Checklist

 Ask to see if your school has proper procedures (you can ask to have a copy of the procedures) in place to cope with crises like:

•  Lock-Down
•  First Aid/CPR Training
•  Bus Safety
•  Crosswalk Safety
•  Gun Safety
•  Severe Weather
•  Suicide Prevention
•  Conflict Resolution
•  Anger Management
•  Stranger Safety
•  Evacuation
•  You aren't at school at the end of the school day to pickup your child, or your child misses the bus.

 9/11 - On September 11, 2001, parents (understandably) went into panic mode and ran to schools to pick up their children.  In many cases, chaos ensued.  A crisis-management plan ensures that there is a procedure in place to evacuate a school or put children in safe areas until the crises has passed or been averted.  These plans vary but would include:

• Notifying parents where to go (in Cheli's school, they meet in the auditorium) during the crisis

• Getting clearance for the parent or guardian who has arrived to remove the child from school (for example, in certain unfortunate divorce situations, this is a perfect time    for a parent without custody to take the child)

• Examining the ID of every parent/guardian and comparing it to the emergency information kept in the school office before releasing the child

• Exercising monthly "Critical Incident" drills

 Stay informed - Ask your child questions.  For example, "Do you have fire drills?  What happens during the drills?"

 Bonus Tip! Make sure your child knows your home number and your cell number.  Knowing your child can reach you in an instant will help put you, and your child, more at ease.

 Cheli will be interviewed on the topic of school safety.  This will be made available to readers of "School Confidential" in November 2006.  You'll be notified via a special e-mail alert.