Stranger Danger and Building Security
“I am just going to pay for my child’s lunches,” a mom stated as I stopped her and asked if she signed in. She replied, “no.”
I said I understood, but we need all visitors to sign in upstairs. She turned, made that sound that kids do when they are upset with parents, and went upstairs to sign in.
I know it is hard to walk upstairs and sign in for a visit that will only last less than five minutes, BUT as a campus, it is our goal to keep our kids safe. We ask that ALL visitors sign in, no matter who they are.
Are our methods perfect? No, they are not. I wish they were, but getting upset with staff members because we want to keep your child safe does not serve the goal of keeping our kids safe.
The sign says you must sign in at the office, and it does not list exceptions to the rule. We are not attempting to be rude by asking you to sign in, nor are we being ugly, but with the recent school shootings, we are being diligent. Please sign in upstairs anytime you need to be in the building.
The students have been asked over the last few years to let an adult know if they see someone without a sticker, so we can inquire as to their presence on campus. We are being proactive in taking care of our kids, but they don’t always know all of the parents. So, please, demonstrate care and concern by signing in.
Classroom guidance sessions have included a segment on Stranger Danger. We have explored the concept of “a bad apple” among a society who operates with kindness and respect. The teachings are not intended to scare but to prepare, so they will know what to do if something ever were to happen.
The guidelines we have discussed include:
* Never talk to a stranger.
*
Never take candy or other presents from a stranger.*
Never go anywhere with a stranger.*
Don’t keep secrets from your parents – especially if someone asks you to.*
Your body is your own personal property and nobody else’s business – especially the private parts.*
Use your common sense. We can’t have rules for everything. Common sense is what keeps us safe by telling us what to do in situations that are not covered by rules.Please review these guidelines with your children. If you ever need anything, feel free to contact me at 646-8633.
- Kimber Bennett