What you Need to Know
There are basically two parts to school safety. Just enough for an argument over the best way to keep schools safe. Statistically, most schools are still safe places for students. The two parts are not competing. They are complimentary.
Safe People
The other part is social safeguards. This is behavior, the social environment, clear expectations, appropriate discipline inclusion, respect and manners. The same standards of conduct are for everyone, including staff, parents, guardians, vendors and other visitors. This is called “School climate”.
Safe Structures
One part is physical safeguards. This is any structure – buildings, doors and locks, ID badges, fire alarms and extinguishers, storm shelters, parking lots etc. This also includes clear walkways, accessible doors, and landscape. This is called “Target Hardening” and/or “Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design” (CPTED).
For students with disabilities, safe buildings mean school sites are accessible, meaning there are automatic doors, modified restrooms and wheelchair access, to name a few. This also means any changes made to school structures for target hardening or CPTED accommodate students the needs of all students.
For students with disabilities, safe people mean that all staff are trained to plan for students with disabilities and students are included in safety plans, safety planning, safety drills and all school safety activities as appropriate to their age and developmental level. Staff are also trained in crisis intervention, restorative justice and disability informed safety practices. Above all, staff know students well enough to know when they are struggling and respond appropriately.