School Safety Summit focuses on efforts to keep students and staff safe
Community comes together to listen and learn, and now you can share your thoughts
Schools in Gresham and nationwide facing safety challenges
Superintendent James Hiu kicked off Gresham-Barlow’s October 29 School Safety Summit by acknowledging that schools in Gresham-Barlow, throughout Oregon, and across the country all face safety challenges.
“What happens in our neighborhoods eventually affects our schools, which are a microcosm of the world around us,” Hiu said. “This is a critical time for our community.”
More than 150 people attended the event at Gordon Russell Middle School aimed at focusing on how school safety could be strengthened.
School bond funds numerous safety improvements
Chief of Operations John Koch shared a complex list of security improvements funded by the 2016 school bond.
“The 2016 bond was a game changer,” said Koch.
- Lockdown Buttons: Principals can now place a school in a hold, secure, or lockdown at the press of a button. The system also immediately sends a text message to District administrators so they can provide support.
- Security Cameras: District administrators now have more than 800 integrated security cameras available to monitor GBSD’s 17 schools in the event of an emergency.
- Classroom Locks: The bond funds also allowed the District to upgrade its classroom lock system so that teachers can lock their classrooms without entering the hallway.
Action schools take during emergencies
Koch’s presentation also included a review GBSD's Standard Response Protocols.
Those actions are called Standard Response Protocols (SRPs). They are designed to provide everyone with clear and consistent language and are used by schools, police, and fire departments across the country.
Gresham Police Chief-Students’ safety is a priority
Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg also addressed the group and discussed the partnership between the school district and the police department.
“Your children are our community, and their safety is a priority for us,” Gullberg said.
Due to staffing issues, the Gresham Police Department is currently unable to provide school resource officers. Because of this, Gullberg has assigned an officer to serve as a liaison between schools and the police department. This partnership has provided an opportunity for ongoing conversations and the development of school safety protocols that align with best practices.
Report school threats to SafeOregon
The presentation portion of the event concluded with presentations from the Senior Deputy District Attorney - Juvenile Unit Kate Molina and SafeOregon. The SafeOregon Tip Line (844-472-3367), website, and mobile app, can be used to report threats or potential acts of violence.
Listening Session: Attendees share their ideas
During the last part of the meeting, participants talked about safety challenges and shared ideas.
Discussion Questions
- What ideas do you have for GBSD leadership to support student safety?
- What can parents, students, and community members do to support safety in our schools?
- What questions do you have for GBSD leadership?
You can share your input, ask questions
Fill out the School Safety Summit Online Feedback Form to share input or ask questions.
Submit your feedback by Friday, November 8.
What happens next?
Input gathered at the event and online will be shared with the Gresham-Barlow School Board as the District determines the next steps in addressing school safety.
Resources:
GBSD Safety Summit Online Feedback Form