How is the school keeping children safe on a daily basis?

Some of the measures used to keep children safe include:

  • Building security measures including: restricted access, instant background checks for visitors (roll-out throughout the district, currently at PHS), captured vestibules, interior and exterior cameras
  • Adherence to policies related to Programs and Pupils https://www.palisadessd.org/Page/4549 
  • Employee and volunteer background checks and clearance requirements
  • Partnerships with local law enforcement, fire departments, emergency management coordinators, and mental health care providers (school/community tabletop drills, regular task force meetings, meetings immediately following critical incident to review school/community process, comprehensive emergency management plan development and review, physical plant and security process audits). 
  • National Incident Management System (NIMS) training for administrators
  • Implementation of Pennsylvania’s Student Assistance Program (SAP) - this team is made up of school personnel and community resources to assist students and families in identifying issues including alcohol, tobacco, other drugs, and mental health issues, which pose a barrier to student success. SAP team members do not diagnose, treat or refer to treatment; but they may recommend a screening or assessment within Bucks County
  • Reporting of cases of suspected child abuse to ChildLine via a phone call and submitting a report to the Department of Child Welfare
  • Student, staff and community participation in drills throughout the school year to practice various emergencies including: lockdown, evacuation and parent/child reunification.
  • Program development based on student reporting on anonymous student surveys (AlcoholEdu, Strengthening Families, Life Skills)