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The Safety and Security department works with staff members across the intermediate unit to provide the safest environment possible for all students, staff and visitors to our buildings. This is accomplished through continual training, planning and striving to align security procedures with the most current standards. While our schools are equipped with security technology including controlled access and surveillance cameras, it is important for our staff, students, and families to be aware of our current safety and security procedures.
The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) values the input of our community stakeholders. If you have a question or concern about security practices and/or procedures, please send an email to our Safety and Security Assistant Manager, Andrew Thurston.
Safety and Security Responsibilities
Staff members follow safety and security protocols, model safety and security behaviors, reinforce behavior expectations and provide behavior interventions. Staff members also plan and conduct emergency drills, participate in safety committees, and collaborate with CCIU personnel and community members to provide safe and secure learning environments. They also know how to identify potential safety and security threats and immediately report such concerns to the school administration.
Students play a critical role in maintaining safe and secure schools. Students should follow all directions during emergency drills and should be willing to talk with parents, teachers, school counselors, school administrators, and police when they have concerns about their own safety or the safety of others. They should also practice positive interpersonal relationship skills to help sustain a safe and secure learning environment and to promote social competence.
Community members, including members of law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services, work to collaborate with school officials to develop emergency response protocols.
Safety & Security Committee Meetings
This committee is comprised of internal stakeholders to review current structures, practices, and procedures and make recommendations to the administration. This committee also assists with the screening of training provided to staff and students.
Reunification with Guardians
One critical aspect of emergency response planning is the reunification of students with their guardians in the event of a school crisis or emergency.
Key aspects include:
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The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority. A formalized and controlled student release process is sometimes necessary based on our students' best interest and/or advisement from local authorities.
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Reunification may occur at a different location than the school a student attends. Each situation is unique and may require an altered response.
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Initial communication and up-to-date information will be shared through the mass call system, website, and social media accounts. In order to receive prompt communication, it is important that ALL parents and guardians update their student emergency contact information in PowerSchool throughout the course of the school year when changes to contact information occur.
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When arriving at the designated reunification site, parents and guardians must:
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Check in with school officials at a station based on the child(ren)'s last name.
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Provide a valid source of identification so that the information provided matches the information on the student's emergency contact information.
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In the event that it is necessary for the CCIU to reunify students and guardians, unless directed, please do not attempt to travel to the child's school.
Our Team
Chrissy Simpkins, Manager of Safety and Security
Andrew Thurston, Assistant Manager of Safety and Security
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