In response to the tragic shootings in Newtown, Conn., village police officers will have an increased presence this week in Greendale schools, according to a message from Superintendent John Tharp.
"It is difficult to imagine the pain the events of Friday have brought upon them," Tharp said in the Sunday message. "Even though this took place far away from Greendale, its impact reaches across the nation and gives us reason to pause and think about our own schools and the safety and well-being of our own children."
The mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School cut the lives of many children and adults short.
Schools across the country — including Greendale — have notification systems that enables them to quickly reach parents in such emergency situations.
Each school in Greendale has an updated crisis management plan that addresses a variety of safety scenarios. For example, the district has a phone chain and email notification system to reach out to parents during school lockdowns.
Greendale schools have secured access and visitors need to be buzzed into the buildings.
The school district is working closely with the village and the Greendale Police Department.
"I also want to reassure you that we take proactive measures with our existing crisis plans to protect students and staff," Tharp said in the message.
Teachers and student services staff are prepared to help any students who have questions or fears they may express. The district has some suggested resources that include websites and publications to help parents discuss violence and the news with their children, among other areas. See the attached document.
