The Spencer-Van Etten Central School District is reaffirming its commitment to student and staff safety by sharing proactive measures and initiatives designed to strengthen protection, preparedness, and support across the district.
District leaders emphasized that the safety and well-being of students and employees remain the highest priority, particularly in light of troubling and sometimes violent events occurring nationally. Each incident, whether near or far, serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparation.
As a school community, S-VE approaches safety through a comprehensive cycle of prevention, preparation, response, recovery and support. Administrators regularly debrief as events unfold both locally and nationally, using those experiences to refine practices and enhance readiness.
Over the past year, the district has implemented a series of initiatives to further bolster safety efforts, including:
Threat assessment process
Districtwide Safety Symposium
“See Something, Say Something” online reporting system
Online bullying reporting option
Workplace violence prevention measures
TIG and crisis teams
Safety plan updates
TCI and de-escalation training
Peer mediation opportunities
Expanded CPR and Narcan training
ParentSquare communication platform
Resources for families
Collaboration with community agencies
Student advisory groups
Supportive extracurricular clubs and athletics
These steps represent a portion of the ongoing work to maintain safe and supportive learning environments. At the Sept. 11 Board of Education meeting, district leaders shared a presentation highlighting current safety measures. Families and community members were invited to attend the session in the high school library.
Superintendent of Schools Barbara J. Case acknowledged the essential role that students, employees, families and community members play in this effort. Open communication, shared responsibility and collaboration, she said, are vital to building a strong network of safety and care.
“Together, we will continue to uphold our commitment to safety, resilience and support for all members of our school community,” Case said.