Perkins + Will , Dena ’ ina Elementary School . Wasilla , Alaska .
Photo Credit : Kevin G . Smith Photography ogy-based reporting , and a means to report anonymously .
• Ensure there are effective communications protocols to transmit information in a timely fashion .
• Develop security staffing programs that are dedicated to campus or schools with specific duties .
• Develop student participation programs that allow students to report in real time to security and / or administrative staff .
• Utilize “ day time ” alarm monitoring of emergency egress doors and other low traffic areas to provide security with the maximum time of intervention of a potential criminal act .
• Utilize hand-held technologies such as tablets and smartphones to provide security staff with real time video and alarm conditions .
• Develop communications and greeting procedures for first responders to provide response directions and access to areas as needed .
• Manage security review programs to ensure all physical security components are functioning .
In addition to the potential threats that originate beyond the borders of the school campus , we need to recognize that many dangerous situations are caused by those on campus everyday — namely the students themselves . Fighting and bullying should be considered when organizing a comprehensive school safety plan . A recent study from the National Center for Education Statistics found that students age 12-18 reported most incidents of bullying take place in transitional areas between classrooms such as hallways and stairwells . In instances like these , transparent design that utilizes glass and clear lines of sight can help to diminish opportunities for bullying .
While the physical environment and technological solutions are critical in security solutions , we cannot underestimate the incredible importance of human relationships . Our best school leaders understand the critical need for every student to have a meaningful relationship with at least one adult in the building . These relationships make it more likely that negative changes in behavior will be
10j essentials | spring 2018