The Walled Lake School system hasn't forgotten the lessons of Newtown, Conn. and it reminded parents of that on Wednesday.
School Superintendent Kenneth Gutman (pictured here) sent a memo to parents and staff on Wednesday to layout a three-phase plan.
"Since the Newtown, Connecticut tragedy, we have had ongoing discussions with our law enforcement officials from the communities we serve, reviewed our existing emergency and security procedures, and listened and reflected upon the myriad of ideas, suggestions, and feedback you have provided," he wrote.
The memo, which was obtained by Deadline Detroit, states:
Phase I: Continuing to lock the exterior doors at all our schools. Thank you for your patience as we have implemented this. To ensure that this is consistent in our 19 schools, we have hired hall monitors/paraeducators at each of our schools so the front doors are monitored across the District. As you know, we hired an Oakland County Police Liaison Officer earlier this year to assist at our secondary schools. We are currently in discussions with law enforcement officials to provide additional security for this year.
Phase II: Making plans to install video intercom systems at the entrances to each school using Sinking Fund monies. Plans and specifications are being prepared; and following review and approval by the Board of Education, we plan to install these systems this summer so they are ready for the start of the 2013-2014 school year.
Phase III: Exploring comprehensive security systems through a potential District bond project. Since only limited systems may be purchased with Sinking Fund proceeds, we plan to compile data on comprehensive video surveillance systems, other needed technology, the potential reconfiguration of some of our schools’ entrances, and transportation needs for the District to formulate a bond proposal.
"Although we have consistently performed trainings, drills, and orientations for staff members, we know there is always room for improvements," Gutman wrote.
